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Our  Ladv  of  Mercy 


REMINISCENCES 

OF  SEVENTY  YEARS 

==(1846-1916)  = 


SAINT   XAVIER'S 

CHICAGO 


THE  FRED  J.  RINGLEY  CO. 

PUBUSHERS 

CHICAGO.  ILUNOIS 

1916 


Reverend  Mother  Mary  Genevieve  Granger 


iitt  ilemaru 

of  our  beloueb  %eu.  Hother 

miarj!  ^eneuieue  Granger 

uihose  beautiful  life 

uias  a  series  of  harmonious   arts 

of  loue  of  (lob  anb  the  neighbor 

for  uihom  she  spent  herself 

anb  uias  spent 

anb  uiho  In  her  greatness  of  soul 

uias  the  ualtant  uioutan 

loueb  bu  (Sob 

anb  honoreb  bu  her 

(ttommunltu. 

September  a4th.  191B 


NIHIL  OBSTAT 

Chicago,  Illinois,  1916 

V.  Rev.  I.  F.  Green,  O.  S.  A.,  S.  T.  B. 

Censor  Librorum 


IMPRIMATUR 

Chicago,  Illinois,  1916 

^  George  William  Mundelein, 

Archbishop  oj  Chicago 


o 


CONTENTS 


Page 

Early  Convent  Life, — Introduction i 

Miss  Catherine  McAuley 3 

Her  young  life  is  saddened  by  death 4 

The  great  climax  in  Catherine's  life 4 

Mr.  and  Mrs.  Callahan  adopt  her 5 

Her  trials  in  their  family 5 

The  clouds  are  dispelled,  the  mists  are  cleared 6 

Catherine  becomes  a  great  heiress 6 

She  feels  God  wants  her  to  help  the  poor 7 

"Institute  of  Our  Lady  of  Mercy"— 1827 7 

"Every  good  work  is  destined  to  be  opposed" 8 

Three  members  go  to  the  Presentation  Order,  1830 8 

Indulgences  granted  the  new  Institute 9 

They  make  their  vows,  December  12,  1831 9 

Foundation  of  the  Order  of  Mercy 9 

Death  of  the  Revered  Foundress  November  11,  1841 12 

First  foundation  of  the  Order  of  Mercy 17 

First  house  of  the  Order  in  America,  1843 18 

Chicago  house  opened  in  1846 25 

The  first  Superior  of  this  house 26 

The  first  Bishop  of  Chicago 27 

The  new  convent — 131  Wabash  Ave 37 

The  death  of  Bishop  Quarter 38 

"Deus  meus  et  omnia" 41 

Visitation  of  the  sick — the  orphans 42 

Mercy  Hospital  opened  February,  1851 43 

St.  Xaviers'  closing  exercises  of  1851 43 

Hymn  to  Our  Lady  of  Mercy 47 

Cholera  epidemic,  1854 51 

The  Mother  Superior  and  three  others  die  of  it 52 

Second  Superior,  Sr.  Mary  Paula  Ruth 52 

Her  letter  to  Sister  Mary  Camillus 53 

Death  of  Rev.  Mother  Mary  Paula 53 

Sr.  Mary  Vincent  McGirr  chosen  Superior 54 

Fourth  Superior,  Sr.  Mary  Francis  de  Sales 54 

She  sends  a  colony  to  Ottawa,  111 55 


Page 

The  first  sodality  in  Chicago 55 

Visiting  the  jail — two  sisters  locked  in , 56 

House  of  the  Good  Shepherd  opened 57 

Purchase  of  land  at  Calumet  Ave.  and  26th  St 59 

St.  Agatha's  Academy  built  here,  1863 59 

Poem— "St.  Agatha's  Revisited". 60 

Bishop  Van  de  Velde,  Second  Bishop  of  Chicago,  1849 62 

He  resigns  in  1853 63 

Rev.  James  Duggan  of  St.  Louis,  Administrator 63 

Rt.  Rev.  Anthony  O'Regan,  third  Bishop,  1854 63 

Rev.  Jas.  Duggan  becomes  Coadjutor  in  St.  Louis 63 

Bishop  O'Regan  resigns,  1858 63 

Bishop  Smith  of  Dubuque,  Administrator 63 

Rt.  Rev.  James  Duggan,  fourth  Bishop  of  Chicago 64 

His  health  fails  and  he  is  brought  to  St.  Louis 65 

"Thou   knowest   best"— Poem 65 

The  Sisters  go  to  the  seat  of  war 69 

Col.  James  Mulligan  and  the  Irish  Brigade 69 

The  simplicity  and  docility  of  the  soldiers 70 

General  Fremont's  kindness 71 

Camp  Douglas  and  Col.  Sweet 71 

Rev.  Mother  Francis  visits  the  camp 71 

Deplorable  condition  of  the  sick  prisoners 71 

"The  Old  Soldier's  Story"— Poem 72 

Colonel  Sweet's  daughter  a  pupil 74 

The  soldiers  serenade  the  pupils 74 

A  serious  accident  in  the  neighborhood 75 

Sister  Mary  Scholastica  is  chosen  Superior. 75 

She  enlarges  the  Hospital— 1869 75 

She  sends  Sisters  to  De  Witt,  Iowa 75 

Mother  Mary  Borromeo  in  charge  in  Iowa 76 

Mother  Mary  Francis  goes  to  her  assistance 76 

She  becomes  Superior  there  in  course  of  time 77 

Her  death,  December  8,  1883 77 

"In   Memoriam" — Poem    78 

Harrisburg   Foundation — 1869 79 

Great  Fire  of  1871 79 

A  site  for  the  new  St.  Xavier's  at  29th  and  Wabash  Ave 80 

Rt.  Rev.  Thomas  Foley,  fifth  Bishop  of  Chicago 80 

He  visits  St.  Xavier's  and  promises  a  medal  for  reading 81 

He  brings  ten  Indian  chiefs  to  the  Academy 81 

Rev.  Mother  Mary  Genevieve  elected  Superior,  1873 82 

Sketch  of  this  noted  Superior's  early  days 85 


Page 

Miss  Gillespie  changes  her  mind 87 

She  enters  Holy  Cross,  becoming  the  famous  Mother  Angela . .     88 

A  branch  house  opened  in  Bourbonnais,  111 91 

Responsibility  of  the  Novitiate  training 93 

"Order  for  a  Picture" — Alice  Shannon 94 

The  Cholera  epidemic— 1873   99 

The  Sisters  care  for  the  victims 100 

Deplorable  conditions  of  the  sick 101 

The  new  Academy  opened  on  29th  and  Wabash  Ave 103 

The  immense  debt  thus  contracted 103 

Rev.  Mother  Genevieve  is  told  to  solicit  alms 104 

This  proves  useless  and  she  is  glad  to  desist 105 

All  the  property  was  sold  for  the  mortgage 105 

Holy  Innocent's  Day— 1877 106 

Bishop  Foley  writes  amusing  letters  to  the  novices 107 

February  27th  always  a  gala  day 107 

The  good  Bishop  visits  his  mother  in  Baltimore 108 

Death  of  this  well-beloved  Bishop,  1879 108 

His  venerated  remains  are  brought  to  Baltimore 108 

"In   Memoriam,"   Mary  Thompson — (Sr.   M.   Blanch,   R.   I.   P. 

1892)    108 

St.  Xavier's  Aliimnae  Association 113 

"Our  Alumnae" — Poem  by  Mary  Agnes  O'Brien 114 

"Experiences" — Paper  read  at  Alumnae  Meeting — Mrs.  D.  F. 

Burke     116 

"Bygone  Hours" — Poem,  Mrs.  Butler 120 

Lord  Byron's  choice  of  a  school  for  his  daughter 123 

Miss  Cynthia  W — 's  experience  after  leaving  school 123 

"True   Heroism" — Poem — Lily   Sandmeyer 124 

The  Golden  Mile  Post  of  the  Order  in  Chicago— 1896 127 

The  new  St.  Xavier's  about  ready 129 

Description  of  this  fine  building 130 

Its  dedication,  September  24,  1901 131 

Bishop   Muldoon   officiates 132 

"The  Teacher  in  Society  Life"— Mrs.  Clo'  Keogh 132 

The  Golden  Jubilee  of  1901 137 

Rev.  M.  Genevieve,  Mother  M.  Scholastica  and  Sr.  M.  Angela. .  137 
Rev.  A.  D.  Granger  epitomizes  the  life  of  Rev.  M.  Genevieve . .   138 

Abp.  P.  W.  Riordan  remembers  the  Jubilarians 145 

Jubilee  Greetings,  Children's  Day,  Community  Day 146 

Novitiate     Day,  Alumnae  Day 148 

Golden  Jubilee— Poem— Sr.  M.  G.,  Ottawa,  111 150 

Results  of  prayer  to  St.  Joseph 155 


Page 

Mother  Genevieve's  wit  and  humor 158 

Visiting  the  county  jail 159 

A  letter  from  a  youthful  prisoner 160 

Visitation  of  the  sick 161 

A  wonderful  letter  to  the  Sisters 162 

Mother  Genevieve  writes  to  absent  Sisters 167 

Letter  from  El  Paso,  Texas 173 

Her  letter  to  Ireland 174 

The  three  altars  consecrated — 1903 179 

"Friendship's  Token" — Poem — Agnes  Ennessy 180 

Mother  Genevieve's  admirable  qualities 185 

Her  last  letter  was  to  Sr.  Mary  Raphael 197 

Departure  of  Rev.  Mother  Mary  Genevieve 198 

A  graphic  description — Sr.  M.  G.,  Ottawa,  111 199 

The  funeral  services 200 

Funeral  sermon  by  Abp.  J.  E.  Quigley,  D.  D 202 

Tribute  to  W.  J.  Onahan • 207 

From  a  Sister's  Note-Book 212 

"In  Memoriam" — Mrs.  Clo'  Keogh,  Alumna 216 

Letters  of  Sympathy 221 

Impressions  of  an  old  friend 228 

"In  loving  memory  of  Mother  Genevieve" 230 

"My  Rosary"  232 

Most  Rev.  P.  W.  Feehan,  D.  D.,  first  Archbishop  of  Chicago, 

1880    237 

His  demise  after  twenty-two  years  of  labor,  1902 238 

Most  Rev.  J.  E.  Quigley,  D.  D.,  second  Archbishop,  1902 240 

"Gold  Lies  Deep  in  the  Mountain" — Julia  T.  Greene 243 

Recapitulation  of   Schools 249 

St.  Mary's  Training  School 255 

Model  Home  found 256 

The  St.  Xavier  College 260 

Change  on  Evans  Avenue 260 

Widening   Langley  Avenue 261 

City  Council  agrees  to  proposition 262 

Mayor  Dunne  signs  it,  1906 262 

Our  Grotto — Lady  of  Lourdes 263 

Hymn  for  May 264 

Our  Chapel    265 

Opening  of  Mercy  Hospital 269 

Growth  of  Mercy  Hospital 270 

Full  description  of  Annex 271 

School  for  Nurses 274 


Page 

Alumnae  Association  of  Nurses 275 

Sister  Mary  Raphael  McGill — local  Superior 275 

A  munificent  benefactor — Mr.  Thompson 277 

"The  Sister  of  Mercy"— Poem— M.  R.  C 278 

Most  Rev.  Geo.  William  Mundelein,  D.  D.,  Third  Archbishop. . .  283 

He  arrives  in  the  Garden  City,  February  8,  1916 283 

His  installation  and  eloquent  address 284 

A  record  of  368  living  members  and  138  departed 297 

Mother  Mary  Scholastica  Drum,  an  octogenarian 297 

Sister  Mary  Angela  Martin,  another 299 

Sister  Mary  Victoire  Bosse,  a  third 299 

Jubilee  Ode  of  Sr.  Mary  Victoire 301 

Golden  Jubilees  of  this  Community 303 

"Golden  Links"— Poem— Sr.  Jane  Duggan— R.  I.  P 304 

Reminiscences  of  some  who  have  gone  before 307 

"In  Memoriam"— Sr.  M.  Pius  Teats 315 

Sister  Mary  Ignatius  Feeny,  R.  I.  P 320 

"Veni  Sponsa  Christi"— Poem 324 

"God's  Will  For  Us"— Sonnet 326 


EARLY  CONVENT  LIFE     ' 

The  First  of  the  Nuns  in  the  Catholic  Church 

Evidences  Found  by  Archaeologists  in  Rome — Reception 

of   Candidate   for   the    Veil  Portrayed   in   the 

Catacomb  of  Priscilla — Claudia,  the 

Vestal,  a  Christian  Nun, 

A  very  interesting  contribution  to  the  history  of  early 
Christianity  in  Rome  was  made  to  the  British  and  Amer- 
ican Archaelogical  Society  by  Monsignor  James  A.  Camp- 
bell, late  rector  of  the  Scots'  College  in  this  city,  says  the 
Rome  correspondent  of  the  Baltimore  Sun.  The  preva- 
lence of  the  practice  of  conventual  life  in  every  land 
where  Christianity  has  held  sway  shows  the  hold  which 
the  idea  of  retirement  from  the  world  has  had  at  all  times 
and  places  upon  the  minds  of  pious  women. 

It  was  strange  to  hear  from  a  student  of  this  subject 
the  faint  records  which  have  come  down  to  our  day  of 
the  beginning  of  the  retired  life,  and  especially  in  Rome. 
The  clearest  and  most  unmistakable  evidences  of  the  fact 
that  in  Rome  many  women  dedicated  themselves  to  the 
service  of  God  in  a  retired  life  are  furnished  by  Catacomb 
inscriptions  as  well  as  by  the  writings  of  the  early 
Fathers.  There  is,  of  course,  a  literature  upon  the  sub- 
ject, but  it  may  be  said  that  it  is  not  known  to  every  one. 

Among  the  writers  on  the  theme  is  Monsignor  Guiseppe 
Wilbert,  in  his  elaborate  work,  "Virgins  Consecrated  to 
God  in  the  First  Century  of  the  Church."  Wilbert  is  a 
follower  of  the  late  De  Rossi,  and  this  great  master  of 
archaeology  said  to  his  pupil,  on  hearing  that  he  had 
made  the  virgins  vowed  to  God  the  subject  of  his  book: 


"You  have  selected  for  your  study  the  flower  of  Christian 
archaeology." 

Inscriptions  on  the  graves  of  virgins  consecrated  to 
God  speak  of  them  as  "Virgins  of  God,"  "Virgins  of 
Christ,"  "Brides  of  Christ,"  and  such  like.  "Handmaids 
of  God,"  or  of  Christ,  are  also  titles  met  with;  and  one 
inscription  is  to  a  "Maiden  pleasing  to  God,  maiden  sub- 
lime." In  considering  the  fulness  of  meaning  expressed 
in  the  consensus  of  words  used  in  such  epitaphs  we  may 
appreciate  the  esteem  in  which  these  women  thus  conse- 
crated to  God  were  held  in  the  early  Church.  These  epi- 
taphs belong  to  the  first  four  centuries  of  Christianity 
and  are  fully  in  harmony  with  the  general  esteem  in 
which  these  virgins  were  held  by  the  ecclesiastical  writers 
of  the  period. 

St.  Jerome,  who  has  written  very  much  upon  them,  and 
who  describes  the  ceremonies  of  their  solemn  reception, 
styles  one  of  them  Domina — lady.  While  it  is  regarded 
as  certain  that  from  a  veiy  early  period  in  the  history 
of  the  Church  women  were  moved  through  their  piety  to 
devote  themselves  to  a  state  of  virginity  in  order  the 
better  to  serve  God  and  minister  to  the  poor,  it  is 
acknowledged  that  it  was  impossible  for  maidens  to  live 
a  cloistered  life  according  to  rule  in  times  of  persecution. 

That  virginity  was  recognized  by  the  pagans  as  a  sign 
of  Christianity  is  evident  from  the  fact  that  when  a 
maiden  refused  to  marry,  the  candidate  for  her  hand  fre- 
quently denounced  her  as  a  Christian  and  let  persecution 
loose  upon  her.  Thus  it  is  concluded  that  the  rule  of  a 
strict  life  was  observed  by  them  in  their  own  homes.  As 
Monsignor  Campbell  put  it:  "One  bond  united  them — 
their  vow  of  dedication  to  the  Heavenly  Bridegroom." 
"She  was  known  to  herself  alone  and  to  God"  is  the 
inscription  on  the  grave  of  one  of  these. 

It  appears  that  even  in  the  second  century  there  was  a 
public  profession  of  dedication  of  virgins  to  the  Lord,  and 
this  was  accompanied  with  special  and  sjmabolical  cere- 


monies.  The  greater  ceremonies  took  place  at  Easter  and 
other  prominent  festivals,  even  in  the  case  of  those  who 
had  made  a  private  dedication  of  themselves.  According 
to  the  records  by  inscription  on  their  graves,  the  ages 
at  which  this  dedication  was  made  were  much  under  that 
at  which  it  is  now  made.  The  inscriptions  give  10,  12,  14 
and  16  years  of  age  as  periods  of  profession.  Children 
were  vowed  to  this  life  by  their  parents,  subject,  how- 
ever, to  their  own  ratification  when  they  reached  the  age 
of  reason. 

The  veil  was  the  chief  distinction  of  the  virgin  vowed 
to  the  service  of  God;  it  was  given  to  the  candidate  by 
the  Bishop,  and  the  words  used  in  the  ceremony  by  the 
Bishop  reveal  its  symbolism  and  its  purpose.  In  the  Cat- 
acomb of  Priscilla,  on  the  Salarian  Way,  a  pictorial 
representation  in  one  of  the  oldest  chambers  shows  the 
reception  of  the  veil.  There  are  three  figures  in  the  group 
— a  Bishop,  a  deacon,  and  the  maiden,  who  is  about  to 
receive  the  veil.  The  Bishop,  an  aged  man  with  a  white 
beard,  is  seated  on  a  chair  or  throne.  With  his  right  hand 
he  points  before  him,  probably  at  the  figure  at  the  other 
extremity  of  the  picture,  which  represents  the  Madonna, 
or  Blessed  Virgin,  seated  on  a  throne,  holding  the  Divine 
Infant  in  her  arms.  The  action  of  the  Bishop  has  been 
interpreted  as  calling  the  attention  of  the  virgin  about 
to  be  professed  and  to  receive  the  veil  to  the  model  she 
is  to  aim  at  imitating — the  Virgin  Mother. 

The  maiden  stands  at  the  side  of  the  Bishop  holding 
the  veil  with  both  her  hands.  She  is  dressed  in  a  long 
yellow  tunic,  with  two  red  bands  falling  from  the  shoul- 
ders to  the  feet.  Behind  her  stands  the  deacon.  In  the 
center  of  the  picture  there  is  a  large  figure  of  a  virgin 
with  a  veil  and  long  dark  red  flowing  gown  or  tunic.  The 
veil,  which  is  white,  hangs  down  on  each  side  of  her 
head,  and  near  the  ends  it  is  crossed  by  bars  of  red  color ; 
it  terminates  in  a  fringe.  This  is,  altogether,  a  noble 
figure.    The  pose  is  grand  and  graceful,  the  arms  are 

iii 


extended  and  raised,  the  hands  open,  with  the  palms 
turned  toward  the  spectator.  The  figure  is  that  known 
as  an  Orante,  or  praying  figure,  and  according  to  the 
generally  accepted  interpretation,  represents  the  virgin 
vowed  to  God  who  was,  in  all  probability,  buried  here 
and  is  thus  represented  as  having  passed  into  the  enjoy- 
ment of  heavenly  bliss. 

The  eyes  are  looking  upward,  and  so  admirable  in  ex- 
pression is  this  early  fresco  that  you  may  read  in  it  the 
desire  of  the  artist  to  convey  the  idea  that  this  Orante  be- 
holds the  face  of  the  Lord.  This  notion  is  strengthened  by 
the  doves  with  olive  branches  and  the  peacocks — symbols 
of  immortality — depicted  in  the  curving  ceiling  of  the 
arcololium,  where  these  groups  are  painted.  The  grand 
costume  of  the  figure  is  also  suggestive  of  the  heavenly 
reward  bestowed  upon  the  personage  represented.  The 
candidate  for  the  veil  in  this  fresco,  which  furnishes  so 
many  suggestions,  wears  long  hair  in  full,  massive  curls 
on  each  side  of  her  face.  The  custom  of  cutting  off  the 
hair  at  profession — a  custom  which  came  from  Syria  and 
the  East — was  not  introduced  into  Rome,  says  Monsignor 
Campbell,  until  the  regular  establishment  of  convents; 
though,  he  adds,  some  made  this  personal  sacrifice 
privately.  During  the  first  ages,  says  the  Abbe  Duchesne, 
the  virgins  consecrated  to  God  formed,  as  it  were,  an 
aristocracy  in  the  community  of  the  faithful;  they  have 
a  special  mention  in  the  prayers  and  a  special  place  in  the 
Church.  Marks  of  great  respect  were  shown  them;  the 
matrons  never  left  the  sacred  assembly  without  coming 
to  ask  a  kiss  from  them. 

There  are  several  other  frescoes  in  different  Catacombs 
in  which  virgins  are  represented,  such  as  that  in  the  Cat- 
acomb of  St.  Ciriaco,  where  Christ  is  seen  with  five 
virgins  on  His  right  hand  and  five  others  on  His  left. 
Those  on  His  right  hold  up  lighted  torches,  while  those  on 
His  left  bear  extinguished  torches.  The  picture  is  easily 
read  as  a  symbolical   representation   of  the  five  wise 


and  the  five  foolish  virgins — the  former  with  their  lamps 
trimmed  and  burning,  the  latter  with  their  lamps  extin- 
guished for  want  of  oil. 

This  subject  is  not  unfrequent  in  the  series  of  Cata- 
comb pictures.  That  it  has  a  special  reference  to  this 
place,  the  Catacomb  of  St.  Ciriaco,  is  evident  from  the 
fact  that  here  in  the  vicinity  of  the  Church  of  St.  Law- 
rence, which  stands  close  to  the  Catacomb,  was  in  early- 
centuries  a  convent  of  nuns.  When  this  Church  was 
restored  and  newly  adorned  by  Pope  Pius  IX.  in  1862 
many  inscriptions  to  the  memory  of  virgins  were  found 
here.  Out  of  fifty  inscriptions  five  were  those  of  vir- 
gins— a  proportion  quite  extraordinary.  At  St.  Paul's 
Without  the  Walls  in  a  thousand  sepulchral  epitaphs  but 
six  were  dedicated  to  virgins. 

In  writing  the  epitaphs  found  at  St.  Lawrence, 
the  last  master  of  Christian  archaeology,  Commendatore 
de  Rossi,  said  that  the  holy  purpose  of  virginity  in  the 
primitive  Church  was  held  in  such  esteem  and  affection 
that  virgins  were  reputed  the  flower  of  the  most  elect 
portion  of  the  flock  of  Christ.  "But,"  he  continues,  "dur- 
ing the  ages  of  persecution  they  lived  in  their  own  homes, 
nor  was  it  easy,  sometimes  not  even  possible,  to  assemble 
a  certain  number  to  live  together  and  attend  together  to 
the  exercises  of  the  evangelical  counsels.  As  soon  as 
peace  was  given  to  the  Church,  both  in  Egypt  and  Pales- 
tine, the  institution  of  convents  began,  in  which  many 
virgins,  under  the  direction  of  one  among  them,  were 
gathered  together  in  a  common  life." 

The  difficulty  in  pursuing  such  a  study  as  this  is  to  find 
a  certain  date  marking  the  earliest  existence  of  such 
virgins.  The  fresco  in  the  Catacomb  of  Priscilla  repre- 
senting the  investiture  of  a  virgin  with  the  veil  belongs 
undoubtedly  to  the  second  century,  but  the  interpretation 
of  the  subject  of  this  fresco  has  been  questioned,  though 
the  burden  of  evidence  favors  the  original  interpretation. 
In  the  latter  half  of  the  fourth  century  that  the  life  of  the 


cloister  was  established  and  recognized  is  evident  from 
the  writings  of  St.  Jerome,  especially  from  the  letters  he 
wrote  to  those  who  led  such  lives  on  the  duties  and 
observances  of  their  state. 

It  has  been  supposed  that  Marcella,  a  noble  widow  of 
Rome,  was  the  first  who  gave  the  example  of  such  a  mode 
of  life  in  the  metropolis  of  the  Roman  world.  She  studied 
the  discipline  which  the  widows  and  virgins  placed  under 
the  direction  of  Pachomius  practiced  in  the  monasteries 
of  the  Thebaid ;  "and  she  did  not  blush  to  adopt  a  rule  of 
life  which  she  recognized  as  pleasing  to  Christ."  The 
interpretation,  says  De  Rossi,  which  would  represent  St. 
Jerome  as  having  said  that  Marcella  was  the  first  among 
noble  Roman  ladies  to  give  the  example  of  living  as 
virgins  or  as  chaste  widows,  is  a  wrong  interpretation. 
Well,  indeed,  are  the  names  of  illustrious  virgins  and 
widows  dedicated  to  God  known  and  celebrated  who 
flourished  in  Rome  in  the  very  ages  of  the  persecutions. 
What  St.  Jerome  says  is  only  that  Marcella  first  among 
the  Roman  matrons  undertook  the  monastic  life  in  Rome, 
propositum  monachorum;  that  is,  that  mode  of  solitary 
and  severe  living  together  with  other  companions  of  the 
same  intention. 

On  the  slabs  found  at  St.  Lawrence's  Church  the  epi- 
taphs bear  dates  of  the  years  434,  464  and  486.  These 
are  much  later  than  the  dates  of  other  sacred  virgins 
mentioned  in  the  writings  of  the  Fathers,  and  very  much 
later  than  the  picture  in  S.  Priscilla.  In  fact,  more  than 
a  century  before  the  last  of  these  dates  the  Latin  poet  of 
Christian  Rome,  Prudentius,  mentions  the  conventual 
house  of  St.  Lawrence.  He  mentions  in  a  special  manner 
a  Vestal  virgin  named  Claudia  who,  having  left  the  wor- 
ship of  Vesta  and  embraced  the  Christian  life,  went  to 
St.  Lawrence — in  every  probability  a  convent  of  nuns  in 
the  vicinity  of  this  Church,  the  epitaphs  of  some  of  whom 
were  brought  to  light  in  1862. 

It  is  in  the  proximate  Catacomb — ^that  of  St.  Ciriaco — 


that  the  fresco  representing  the  wise  and  the  foolish 
virgins  was  painted  and,  according  to  the  general  opinion, 
over  the  tomb  of  one  of  these  nuns.  Other  incidents 
depicted  here  seem  to  point  to  the  fact  that  the  tomb  was 
that  of  a  person  converted  to  the  faith.  The  question  has 
been  asked,  Could  it  have  been  the  tomb  of  the  Vestal 
Claudia  who,  as  Prudentius  tells,  became  a  Christian 
nun? 

In  the  Atrium  of  Vesta — ^the  courtyard  of  that  pagan 
cloister — ^there  stands  a  pedestal  bearing  a  most  laudatory 
inscription  to  a  high  priestess  of  Vesta,  to  whom  a  statue 
was  erected  on  this  pedestal  by  the  college  of  high  priests, 
under  the  vice-presidency  of  Macrinius  Sossiamus,  as  a 
testimony  to  her  chastity  and  to  her  profound  knowledge 
in  religious  matters.  The  name  of  this  highly  lauded 
lady  has  been  carefully  erased  from  the  pedestal,  no  other 
erasure  but  the  name  having  been  made.  On  the  dis- 
covery of  this  pedestal  in  1883  the  minds  of  scholars  and 
students  went  at  once  back  to  the  events  of  the  time — for 
the  pedestal  is  dated  A.  D.  364 — and  considered  what  was 
likely  to  have  happened  in  Rome  at  that  date.  It  is  con- 
temporary, or  almost  so,  with  the  words  of  Prudentius  in 
his  hymn  to  St.  Lawrence — "Claudia,  the  Vestal  Virgin, 
enters  thy  shrine." 

Is  it  possible  that  the  virgin  buried  at  St.  Lawrence, 
over  whose  grave  the  fresco  of  the  wise  and  foolish 
virgins  was  painted,  was  indeed  that  Claudia  who  had 
forsaken  the  cloister  of  Vesta?  Is  this  the  name  that 
was  erased  from  the  laudatory  inscription  in  the  Atrium 
of  Vesta? 

However  strange  these  conjectures  may  seem  at  first 
sight,  there  is  probability  in  them;  and  thus,  if  they  be 
true,  one  of  the  noblest  of  the  women  of  pagan  Rome,  for 
such  were  the  Vestals,  became  one  of  the  noblest  of  the 
Christians,  living  out  her  pure  and  holy  life  at  the  shrine 
of  the  martyr,  Lawrence,  while  the  priests  of  paganism 
had  decreed  that  her  memory  should  be  condemned  to 


oblivion  and  her  name  erased  from  their  records  of 
honor.  It  would  again  be  one  of  the  ironies  of  history 
to  find  that  the  name  of  the  Vestal  condemned  to  forget- 
fulness  should  under  newer  and  better  auspices  be 
recorded  in  the  writings  of  the  Christian  poet  and  held 
in  high  honor  for  centuries  as  that  of  Claudia,  the  con- 
verted Vestal  Virgin. 


viii 


Reverend  Mother   Catherine   McAui.ey — Foundress 


CHAPTER  ONE 

Foundress  of  the  Order  of  Mercy.  Miss 
Catherine  McAuley.  Her  companions  in  the 
noble  work.  The  Order  confirmed  by  Greg- 
ory XVI.    Death  of  the  Holy  Foundress. 


CHAPTER  ONE 

Before  giving  some  extracts  from  the  Annals  of  the 
Mercy  Sisterhood  in  Chicago,  it  cannot  be  amiss  to  glance 
backwards,  in  order  to  trace  the  family  tree  to  the  root. 

Thus  it  becomes  necessary  to  give  a  cursory  view  of  the 
eventful  life  of  the  holy  Foundress,  without  which  it 
would  seem  incomplete. 

Miss  Catherine  McAuley,  born  in  Dublin,  was  about 
seven  years  old  when  her  devoted  father  was  taken,  in 
1794,  from  his  three  little  children,  leaving  them  unfor- 
tunately to  the  care  of  a  weak,  though  beautiful  mother — 
weak  as  far  as  the  faith  of  their  ancestors  was  concerned. 

Thus  it  happened  that  being  surrounded  by  devoted 
non-Catholic  friends,  Mrs.  McAuley  soon  grew  remiss, 
while  Mary  and  James  succumbed  to  the  great  influence 
brought  to  bear  on  them. 

Catherine,  being  the  oldest,  could  not  forget  the  noble 
example  given  them  by  their  dear,  departed  father,  who 
made  it  a  practice  every  Sunday  to  gather  around  him, 
for  instruction,  the  poor  little  ones  of  the  parish  in  which 
Stormanstown  House  was  located,  notwithstanding  the 
remonstrances  of  his  fashionable  wife,  who  always  made 
the  day  unpleasant. 

How  sincerely  she  regretted  all  this  later  on,  need  not 
be  dwelt  upon  here.  When  Catherine  was  about  eleven 
years,  her  frail  but  beautiful  mother  was  called  to  give 
an  account  of  her  stewardship.  The  remorse  of  the  dying 
woman  was  painful  to  behold.  She  saw  in  the  clear  light 
of  eternity  what  never  had  occurred  to  her  before.  Her 
darling  son  and  lovely  daughter,  Mary,  had  drifted  into 
Protestantism,  and  knew  nothing  whatever  of  the  faith 


SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

of  their  fathers.  Catherine  alone  had  refused  to  go  with 
them,  yet  even  she  had  received  no  instructions.  The 
priest,  who  had  been  introduced  stealthily,  found  it  well- 
nigh  impossible  to  reassure  the  dying  woman,  and  as  the 
shadow  of  death  was  descending  rapidly,  he  was  com- 
pelled to  hasten  the  administration  of  the  last  sacred 
rites.  Before  she  could  make  any  arrangements  regard- 
ing her  children,  the  departing  soul  was  launched  into 
eternity  to  meet  its  Judge. 

Catherine  never  forgot  this  painful  scene,  and  it  is  not 
strange  that  all  her  life  she  had  a  great  dread  of  death. 
Yet  when  God  called  her  she  said,  "If  I  knew  death  could 
be  so  sweet  I  never  would  have  feared  it  so  much." 

After  Mrs.  McAuley's  demise,  her  children  had  to 
depend  entirely  on  the  guardianship  of  friends,  distantly 
related  to  their  mother.  These  were  very  kind  to  them 
but  did  not  manage  their  patrimony  very  successfully, 
hence  it  was  not  long  when  reverses  occurred  and  actual 
want  haunted  them.  Thus  it  was  that  when  Catherine 
had  grown  to  be  a  refined,  graceful,  beautiful  girl  of 
about  sixteen,  she  attracted  the  attention  of  Mr.  and  Mrs. 
Callahan,  connections  of  her  mother.  They  had  just 
returned  from  a  long  residence  in  India  and  had  pur- 
chased Coolock  House,  a  magnificent  demesne  a  few  miles 
north  of  Dublin,  where  they  lived  a  retired  life.  The 
more  they  saw  of  Catherine,  the  more  they  admired  her 
cheerfulness  and  remarkable  good  sense.  At  length  they 
proposed  to  adopt  her.  The  many  advantages  of  such  an 
offer  were  too  evident  to  admit  of  a  refusal.  Her  affec- 
tionate nature  suffered  much  in  being  separated  from  her 
former  friends,  but  this  wore  away,  and  she  became  the 
idolized  child  of  her  kind,  adopted  parents. 

Now  came  the  great  climax  in  Catherine's  life.  Having 
already  perused  several  Catholic  books,  the  good  seed 
sown  at  her  early  baptism  began  to  germinate. 

Anxiety  grew  apace  and  she  started  anew  her  serious 
investigations   in   religious   matters.     It  was  not  long 


SAINT  XAVIER'S— CHICAGO 

before  she  felt  perfectly  convinced  that  the  faith  of  her 
ancestors  was  the  only  one  for  her ;  so  she  called  on  Rev. 
Dr.  Murray,  afterwards  Archbishop,  who  instructed  her 
minutely  and  invited  her  to  repeat  her  visit,  which  she 
soon  did,  finally  receiving  the  bread  of  the  strong  in  Holy 
Communion. 

Although  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Callahan  loved  her  too  well  to 
discard  her  for  following  her  convictions,  they  would 
have  been  far  better  pleased  if  she  had  adopted  any  other 
creed,  or  even  renounced  them  all,  and  on  many  occasions 
the  conversations  she  heard  were  exceedingly  painful  to 
her.  They  would  not  allow  a  crucifix,  or  anything  Cath- 
olic, in  the  house,  and  it  was  with  great  difficulty  she 
attended  Church.  Days  of  abstinence  from  meat  were 
fast  days  for  her,  as  she  could  hardly  make  a  full  meal 
on  vegetables  without  being  remarkable. 

However,  all  these  trials  counted  on  the  credit  side,  and 
her  happiness  was  augmented  when  Mrs.  Callahan  em- 
braced the  Catholic  faith,  some  little  time  before  she 
departed.  The  history  of  her  awakening  to  the  truth  is 
very  interesting  as  is  that  of  Mr.  Callahan,  who  lived  only 
a  year  after  his  beloved  partner,  but  became  a  fervent 
Catholic  before  he  joined  her  in  the  Great  Beyond.  After 
he  began  to  enjoy  the  peace  that  always  comes  to  those 
who  follow  the  dictates  of  conscience  in  such  matters,  he 
asked  Catherine  why  she  had  let  Mrs.  Callahan  die 
without  instructing  her.  "For  you  know,"  said  he,  "she 
was  not  even  baptized."  How  happy  she  was  to  inform 
him  that  all  was  well  with  his  dear,  departed  wife,  and 
how  eagerly  he  listened  to  the  account  of  her  conversion. 

Mr.  Callahan's  will  declared  his  adopted  daughter  the 
sole  heiress  of  his  wealth,  without  even  expressing  a  wish 
as  to  how  she  should  dispose  of  it.  Thirty  thousand 
pounds  in  the  bank,  six  hundred  a  year  in  perpetuity, 
Coolock  House  with  its  appurtenances,  jewels,  plate,  etc., 
besides  several  policies  of  life  insurance,  were  the  prin- 
cipal items  of  Catherine's  fortune;  yet  she  dressed  plainer 


SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

than  before,  and  visited  the  sick-poor  moi-e  frequently. 

There  was  no  more  merry  making  in  Coolock  House, 
but  poor  old  people  were  frequently  brought  there  and 
cared  for  with  tenderness,  though  often  without  grati- 
tude. 

Our  limited  space  will  not  permit  us  to  wi'ite  at  length 
of  Catherine's  relatives — the  conversion  of  her  beloved 
sister  before  her  departure  and  tlie  persecution  she  had 
to  endure  from  her  brother-in-law  when  he  learned  later 
that  his  wife  had  returned  to  the  true  faith.  All  the  par- 
ticulars concerning  their  conversion,  which  are  veiy 
interesting,  may  be  found  in  the  admirable  "Life  of 
Mother  Catherine  ]\IcAuley,"  by  the  late  Mother  Austin 
Carroll. 

And  now  we  have  come  to  the  beginning  of  the  gi*eat 
work  of  Mercy.  When  Catherine  became  an  heiress,  she 
felt  God  wished  her  to  do  something  permanent  for  the 
poor.  Having  consulted  spiritual  advisers,  it  was  decided 
to  procure  a  good  site  on  which  to  erect  a  house,  where 
homeless  women  of  good  character  might  find  a  tempo- 
rary abode,  and  be  protected  from  the  dangers  to  which 
so  many  of  their  sex  are  exposed.  This  was  her  first 
object.  Next  came  the  education  of  poor  children,  after 
which  the  other  works  of  ]\Iercy  were  to  come  in  good 
time.  A  plain  but  spacious  building  arose,  the  shell  of 
which  cost  four  thousand  pounds:  the  gi'ounds  were  five 
thousand  pounds,  subject  to  an  annual  rental  of  sixty 
pounds. 

As  her  time  in  the  future  would  be  spent  principally 
at  this  "Home"  in  Baggot  Street,  she  sold  gi'and  old 
Coolock  with  its  libraiy,  pictures  and  furniture,  reserving 
her  equipage  till  a  later  period.  As  she  had  some  orphans 
under  her  care,  she  felt  she  would  soon  have  to  open  an 
orphanage,  and  she  trusted  Providence  to  send  her  help 
in  caring  for  them.  Her  confidence  was  not  misplaced, 
for  in  a  short  time  a  young  lady,  Anne  Marie  Doyle, 

6 


SAINT  XAVIER'S— CHICAGO 

called  on  Miss  McAuley  and  became  strongly  attracted 
to  her  and  her  work. 

This  first  accession  was  received  with  delight  by  the 
Foundress,  feeling  convinced  she  was  sent  by  God. 

September  24,  1827,  the  new  institution  was  opened. 
Miss  Catherine  Bynie  assisted  in  the  school,  but  Miss 
Doyle  resided  there  with  Miss  McAuley,  whose  plan  was 
to  establish  a  sort  of  society  of  secular  ladies,  who  would 
spend  a  few  hours  daily  instructing  the  inmates.  No  one 
concerned  ever  thought  of  founding  a  religious  institute ; 
but  God's  ways  are  not  ours,  for  twenty  years  later  the 
sun  did  not  set  on  the  Order  of  Mercy  thus  originated. 
One  of  Catherine's  early  associates  says,  "God  so  directed 
her  mind  and  actions  that  a  convent  became  a  necessity. 
Gradually  the  interior  life  took  the  perfect  shape  to  which 
it  has  tended  for  ages,  and  the  extenial  occupations  and 
relations  began  to  harmonize  with  it  in  such  a  manner 
that  all  things  became  too  like  monastic  life  to  be  per- 
mitted, unless  under  monastic  rule;  hence  monastic  rule 
came  at  last,  in  God's  own  time  and  manner." 

It  was  not  long  before  the  young  ladies  who  assisted 
Catherine  began  to  refuse  to  return  to  their  own  com- 
fortable homes  after  the  labors  of  the  day.  Then  they 
commenced  to  dress  in  a  grave  style,  finally  to  call  one 
another  playfully  "Sister." 

Out  of  devotion  to  the  Sacred  Infancy,  Mother  McAuley 
established  the  custom  of  entertaining  all  the  poor  chil- 
dren of  the  neighborhood  at  dinner  every  Christmas  Day. 
This  was  commenced  in  1827.  Daniel  O'Connell,  one  of 
the  earliest  friends  of  the  rising  Institute,  presided  and 
dined  with  the  little  ones.  Mrs.  O'Connell  frequently 
visited  the  school  and  never  departed  without  leaving 
money  to  be  distributed  among  the  poor.  Her  daughters 
gave  valuable  assistance  in  educating  poor  girls. 

In  1827  Archbishop  Murray  permitted  the  Institute  to 
be  called  "The  Institute  of  Our  Lady  of  Mercy,"  allowing 
the  staff  to  assume  a  distinctive  dress  and  to  visit  the 


SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

sick.  The  uniform  adopted  was  a  dress  of  black  cash- 
mere with  a  deep  cape  and  a  small  white  collar.  A  lace 
cap  and  veil  were  added  later,  the  whole  being  similar  to 
what  is  now  worn  by  the  postulants  of  the  Order. 

The  fourth  accession  to  swell  the  little  group  was  Mary 
Teresa  McAuley,  niece  of  the  Foundress.  The  fifth  was 
Miss  Frances  Warde,  of  whom  much  more  will  be  related 
further  on,  as  she  became  in  time  the  Foundress  of  the 
Order  in  the  United  States,  and  later  brought  the  good 
seed  to  Chicago. 

On  the  Octave  of  the  Ascension,  June  24,  1829,  the 
little  chapel  in  Baggot  Street  was  blessed  by  the  Arch- 
bishop and  dedicated  to  Our  Lady  of  Mercy.  Rev.  Father 
Burke,  a  Franciscan,  was  appointed  chaplain  and  said 
the  first  Mass  on  Pentecost  Sunday.  On  the  Feast  of  the 
Sacred  Heart  Mother  McAuley  established  the  Confrater- 
nity of  this  Adorable  Heart,  and  her  zeal  for  this  devotion 
has  been  faithfully  imitated  by  her  daughters  throughout 
the  world. 

In  the  meantime  the  good  work  of  the  new  Institute 
was  progressing  admirably ;  many  young  ladies  asked  to 
be  admitted,  and  people  looked  with  great  favor  on  the 
project,  which  could  not  fail  to  be  of  advantage  in  many 
ways.  But  the  Cross  soon  loomed  up,  in  order  to 
strengthen  it  and  to  draw  down  upon  it  the  blessing  of 
God,  and  it  was  all  the  heavier  because  it  came  from 
within  the  household  of  faith. 

Clergymen,  who  really  meant  well,  were  the  first  to 
make  serious  objections,  and  it  was  not  long  before  the 
good,  old  Archbishop  was  influenced  by  their  criticisms. 
He  had  been  for  years  Catherine's  spiritual  guide.  She 
had  made  no  move  without  his  sanction,  yet  he  now 
remarked  in  freezing  tones,  "Really,  Miss  McAuley,  I 
had  no  idea  that  a  new  congregation  would  spring  up  in 
this  manner !"  So  astonished  was  she  that  it  was  impos- 
sible for  her  to  say  anything  then;  but  soon  after  his 
departure  she  wrote  His  Grace,  offering  to  resign  into 

8 


SAINT  XAVIER'S— CHICAGO 

his  hands  the  large  house  just  completed  and  everything 
concerning  it,  and  to  co-operate  in  any  capacity. 

This  settled  the  matter.  The  Archbishop  directed  her 
to  continue  the  work,  and  leave  the  rest  to  Providence, 
adding,  "Every  good  work  is  destined  to  be  opposed  and 
contradicted."  However,  it  was  decided  that  three  of 
their  number,  which  now  counted  twelve,  should  make  a 
novitiate  in  some  established  Order,  to  learn  the  prin- 
ciples of  the  religious  life.  Hence  Catherine,  Anna  Maria 
Doyle  and  Elizabeth  Hurley  entered  the  grand  old  Pre- 
sentation Order  at  George's  Hill,  Dublin,  Sept.  8,  1830. 

Before  they  took  this  step,  they  were  all  consoled  in 
June  by  receiving  a  rescript  of  indulgences  for  the  new 
Institute  from  His  Holiness,  Pope  Pius  VIH.  This  was 
granted  chiefly  through  the  influence  of  a  kind  friend, 
Very  Rev.  Dr.  Whelan,  a  Carmelite,  afterward  Bishop 
of  Bombay. 

Dec.  10,  1830,  the  three  postulants  received  the  holy 
habit  of  religion,  according  to  the  Presentation  form. 

Dec.  12,  1831,  they  pronounced  their  vows  with  the 
proviso  that  the  vow  of  obedience  should  include  what- 
ever the  Church  should  subsequently  approve  for  the 
Order  of  Mercy.  Immediately  after  the  ceremony.  Very 
Rev.  Dr.  Blake,  who  preached  on  the  occasion,  conducted 
them  to  their  future  home,  St.  Mary's  in  Baggot  Street. 
This  date  (Dec.  12,  1831)  is  looked  on  as  the  foundation 
of  the  Order,  although  it  had  been  under  way  since  Sep- 
tember, 1827. 

On  the  day  after  their  return  the  Archbishop  canon- 
ically  appointed  the  Foundress,  "Mother  Superior."  She 
entreated  him  to  allow  her  to  be  called  Sister  Superior, 
but  he  confirmed  her  in  the  title  "Mother  Superior,  or 
Rev.  Mother,"  saying:  "There  ought  to  be  at  least  one 
Mother  in  every  home." 

Jan.  23,  1832,  six  of  the  ladies  who  had  conducted  the 
establishment  during  the  absence  of  the  others,  received 
the  holy  habit,  Archbishop  Murray  presiding.    Both  the 


SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

indoor  and  the  outdoor  dress  were  designed  by  the 
Foundress.  The  latter  might  be  worn  by  a  lady  in 
mourning  at  that  time. 

Jan.  24,  1833,  the  first  ceremony  of  profession  took 
place.  Four  of  the  six  who  were  received  one  year  before 
made  their  vows.  At  this  time  the  Archbishop  approved 
the  Rules  and  Constitutions  by  affixing  his  seal  to  the 
following : 

"We  hereby  approve  of  these  Rules  and  Constitutions, 
compiled  (or  composed)  for  the  Religious  Congregation 
of  Sisters  of  Mercy;  and  we  declare  that  it  is  not  our 
intention  that  they  shall  oblige  under  pain  of  mortal  or 
venial  sin,  except  inasmuch  as  the  transgression  of  any 
article  may  be  a  violation  of  the  vows  or  in  itself  a  sin, 
independently  of  the  Rules. 

"D.  MURRAY,  Archbishop. 
"Dublin,  Jan.  23,  1834." 

In  a  short  time  another  squall  arose,  and  this  time, 
some  who  had  appeared  friendly  before,  revived  the  oppo- 
sition with  increased  violence. 

Mother  McAuley  became  alarmed  when  she  heard  that 
a  certain  religious  was  circulating  through  the  city,  that 
"There  was  not  a  stroke  of  a  pen  from  Rome  in  favor  of 
the  Sisters  of  Mercy."  She  was  fully  aware  that  in  a 
country  so  loyal  to  Rome  as  Ireland,  the  report  that  a 
religious  body  was  not  approved  by  Rome,  would  soon 
annihilate  that  body.  Laying  this  new  grievance  before 
His  Grace,  he  immediately  applied  to  Rome,  and  to  the 
great  consolation  of  the  infant  community,  the  solemn 
Apiprohation  of  the  Holy  See  was  granted  accompanied 
by  the  Apostolic  Benediction  May  3,  1835. 

For  five  years  the  rules  were  faithfully  tested  and 
found  perfectly  satisfactory,  so  in  1840  Pope  Gregory 
XVI  solemnly  Confirmed  them,  but  formal  documents 
did  not  reach  St.  Mary's,  Dublin,  until  July  5,  1841. 

10 


SAINT  XAVIER'S— CHICAGO 

The  beloved  Foundress  did  not  long  survive  the  glad 
tidings.  Her  precious  health  failing  rapidly,  her  affec- 
tionate daughters  were  alarmed,  and  begged  of  her  to  go 
to  one  of  their  other  houses  for  change  of  air,  but  she 
had  never  gone  beyond  her  convent  for  purposes  of  health 
or  recreation,  and  she  would  not  do  so  now. 

In  May,  1841,  she  wrote,  "I  have  in  view  another  toil- 
some journey  to  our  house  in  Birr,  England,  and  I  must 
wait  until  then  for  change  of  air."  She  had  contracted 
a  severe  cold  during  her  stay  in  Birmingham,  England, 
her  last  foundation,  and  her  cough  had  become  much 
worse.  Knowing  how  her  devoted  children  would  feel, 
she  concealed  to  the  last,  as  far  as  possible,  the  gravity 
of  her  condition,  denying  to  herself  the  care  she  so  lov- 
ingly lavished  on  others.  Present  at  every  spiritual  exer- 
cise when  scarcely  able  to  walk,  it  was  with  difficulty 
they  persuaded  her  to  retire  an  hour  before  the  usual 
time.  Although  weak  and  exhausted,  the  Sisters  could 
not  realize  the  danger,  but  she  knew  what  was  coming, 
and  calmly  settled  all  business  matters,  as  though  going 
to  be  absent  for  some  time.  As  far  as  possible  she  made 
things  easy  for  her  successor,  as  the  thousands  that  had 
passed  through  her  hands  were  accounted  for  to  the  last 
penny,  and  an  index  showed  where  each  item  could  be 
found.  Correspondence  of  a  confidential  nature  she  de- 
stroyed. In  the  beginning  of  November  her  exhaustion 
became  so  evident,  it  could  no  longer  be  hidden,  and  Nov. 
8,  the  last  Sacraments  were  administered,  the  poor  Sis- 
ters thinking  they  would  restore  her. 

When  asked  by  the  clergyman  present  how  the  thought 
of  death  affected  her,  she  replied:  "If  I  thought  death 
could  be  so  sweet  I  never  should  have  feared  it,  but  Our 
Lord  has  spared  me  very  much."  A  Sister  having  re- 
marked that  after  doing  so  much  for  God  and  His  poor, 
she  could  have  nothing  to  fear,  she  said:  "My  Child, 
let  us  never  think  of  what  we  have  done,  but  rather  what 
we  might  have  done." 

11 


SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

As  the  holy  Mother  grew  weaker,  on  the  morning  of 
the  eleventh,  she  wished  to  see  each  sister  individually, 
and  she  then  gave  the  advice  suited  to  each  one's  neces- 
sities. To  all  in  general  she  said:  "My  legacy  to  the 
Institute  is  Charity ;  if  you  preserve  the  peace  and  union 
which  have  never  yet  been  violated  amongst  us,  you  will 
feel,  even  in  this  world,  a  happiness  that  will  surprise 
you,  and  be  to  you  a  foretaste  of  the  bliss  prepared  for 
every  one  of  you  in  Heaven." 

At  half -past  eight  the  same  morning,  the  Holy  Sacri- 
fice was  offered  in  her  room.  At  eleven  her  breathing 
grew  worse,  yet  she  spoke  calmly  and  cordially  as  usual 
to  those  who  visited  her,  thanking  the  doctor  and  all  who 
had  waited  on  her.  At  five  p.m.  she  asked  for  the  blessed 
candle,  which  she  held  firmly  and  patiently.  Noticing 
that  the  Sisters  had  not  gone  to  supper,  she  called  one 
of  them  and  with  her  usual  forgetfulness  of  self  and  kind 
considerateness  for  others,  said  to  her:  "My  Child,  the 
poor  Sisters  look  fatigued;  be  sure  you  have  a  comforta- 
ble cup  of  tea  for  them  when  I  am  gone."  Some  had 
come  from  distant  houses,  and  her  kind,  motherly  heart 
feared  the  duties  of  hospitality  might  be  neglected  for 
the  first  time  at  St.  Mary's.  At  a  quarter  before  eight, 
fearing  she  did  not  hear  the  prayers,  Mother  Elizabeth 
raised  her  voice;  the  dying  Foundress  at  once  said,  "No 
occasion  to  speak  so  loud,  my  darling,  I  hear  distinctly." 
A  few  minutes  before  eight,  she  gave  an  affectionate 
blessing  to  all  her  children,  present  and  absent,  then 
calmly  closed  her  eyes  murmuring  the  holy  name  of 
Jesus,  and  her  dear  soul  was  with  God. 

The  bereaved  Sisters  felt  they  had  witnessed  the  de- 
parture of  a  Saint,  and  they  were  unanimous  in  wish- 
ing to  keep  the  precious  remains  near  them.  Hereto- 
fore the  deceased  Sisters  were  placed  in  the  vault  of  the 
Carmelite  Church,  St.  Teresa's. 

When  His  Grace  paid  his  visit  of  condolence  on  Friday, 
he  gave  permission  to  have  the  part  of  the  garden  which 

12 


SAINT  XAVIER'S— CHICAGO 

the  Foundress  had  designed  for  a  cemetery,  consecrated. 

On  Saturday,  Nov.  13,  1841,  Catherine  McAuley  was 
"laid  in  the  earth  like  the  poor,"  as  she  wished.  Dr.  Kin- 
sella.  Bishop  of  Ossory,  presiding  and  preaching  the 
funeral  oration.  Five  bishops  and  sixty  priests  followed 
the  remains  to  the  grave.  In  a  few  days  the  remains 
of  her  thirteen  spiritual  children  were  brought  from  St. 
Teresa's  and  placed  beside  their  venerated  Mother. 

To  show  their  great  affection  for  the  beloved  Found- 
ress, the  Sisters  changed  the  title  of  the  Mother  House 
in  Baggot  Street,  Dublin,  from  St.  Mary's  to  St.  Cath- 
erine's. 

In  her  short  religious  life  of  ten  years.  Mother  McAu- 
ley had  founded  fourteen  houses.  The  first,  in  Ireland 
in  1827;  the  Order  spread  rapidly  there,  and  was  intro- 
duced into  England  in  1839,  New  Foundland  in  1842,  the 
United  States  in  1843,  Australia  in  1845,  Scotland  and 
New  Zealand  in  1849,  and  South  America  in  1856.  Each 
of  these  foundations  has  scattered  the  good  seed  so  rapid- 
ly and  plentifully,  that  in  1913  we  were  informed  there 
was  a  membership  of  fifteen  thousand,  although  it  was 
only  eighty-six  years  since  the  first  little  geiiii  was 
planted  in  the  City  of  Dublin. 


13 


Rev.  Mother  Mary  Francis  Warde 


CHAPTER  TWO 

The  Order  spreads  to  the  United  States.  The 
Carlow  House  sends  this  foundation.  Mother 
Mary  F.  Xavier  Warde,  Superior, 


CHAPTER  TWO 

It  now  becomes  our  pleasing  task  to  select  one  offshoot 
from  the  parent  stem,  in  order  to  trace  the  rising  Congre- 
gation to  Pittsburg,  the  first  foundation  in  the  United 
States,  and  thence  to  Chicago. 

As  we  have  seen,  the  fifth  young  lady  to  dedicate  her 
life  to  the  works  of  mercy,  was  Miss  Frances  Warde, 
Nov.  30,  1830.  She  tested  her  vocation  by  giving  much 
of  her  time  to  aid  the  others  for  more  than  a  year,  and 
felt  satisfied  it  was  just  where  God  wanted  her  to  be. 
On  the  return  of  the  Foundress  from  the  Presentation 
Order,  she  found  that  the  good  Postulant  had  kept  things 
moving  and  proved  herself  a  valuable  auxiliary,  hence 
the  white  veil  and  holy  habit  of  the  novice  were  conferred 
on  her  and  five  others,  Jan.  23,  1832.  One  year  after, 
four  of  them  consecrated  themselves  by  vow  to  the  serv- 
ice of  Almighty  God. 

In  1837,  urgent  solicitations  from  Carlow,  induced  the 
Foundress  to  promise  a  foundation  to  that  city,  and  as 
she  had  already  sent  out  most  of  her  experienced  mem- 
bers, she  now  had  to  part  with  her  efficient  Secretary  for 
this  important  mission. 

April  10,  1837,  Mother  McAuley,  Sister  Mary  Xavier 
Warde  and  four  younger  Sisters  started  for  Carlow. 
This  little  Community  grew  so  rapidly,  we  find  Mother 
Warde  opening  in  1839,  another  house  in  Naas.  Again, 
in  1840,  she  sent  another  colony  to  Wexford.  Here  their 
poverty  was  so  great,  they  had  to  carry  chairs  from  one 
room  to  another  as  needed,  but  time  changed  all  this,  and 
slowly  but  surely  all  things  necessary  were  in  evidence. 

In  November,  1841,  Mother  Warde  was  called  upon 

17 


SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

to  bear  the  cross  of  her  religious  life — the  departure  of 
her  beloved  Mother,  Catherine  McAuley,  to  whom  she 
was  devotedly  attached,  and  whom  she  never  could  recall 
without  sincere  emotion.  They  had  worked  together  in 
closest  sympathy  from  1827  until  the  opening  of  the 
Carlow  House  in  1837,  when  the  Foundress  made  the 
sacrifice  of  sending  her  as  Superior;  and  she  was  not 
present  at  the  last  sad  parting,  because  the  dear  Mother 
was  so  patient,  they  did  not  realize  the  end  was  near, 
consequently,  did  not  notify  her  in  time. 

In  1842  Mother  Warde  and  four  Sisters  founded  a 
House  in  Westport  at  the  request  of  Rev.  John  McHale, 
In  a  short  time  they  built  a  new  Convent,  which  was 
the  first  in  Mayo  for  three  centuries.  This  became  so 
flourishing,  that,  in  the  course  of  time,  it  sent  out  several 
foundations  in  the  vicinity,  as  well  as  one  to  Australia 
and  New  Zealand. 

The  House  in  Sligo  is  a  noteworthy  daughter  of  West- 
port,  on  account  of  the  fine  Training  College  for  teachers, 
conducted  by  the  Sisters  of  Mercy. 

And  now  we  come  at  last  to  the  most  wonderful  found- 
ation of  all  from  Carlow — that  of  1843,  when  a  colony 
of  Sisters  braved  the  terrors  of  the  broad  Atlantic,  at 
the  request  of  the  young  Bishop  of  Pittsburg — the  Rt. 
Rev.  M.  O'Conner.  Dr.  Cullen,  afterwards  Cardinal,  hav- 
ing relatives  in  the  Community,  and  being  a  firm  friend 
of  the  new  Bishop  advised  him  to  apply  to  Mother  Warde 
in  Carlow  for  Sisters.  Oct.  4,  1843,  he  called  at  this  con- 
vent and  very  eloquently  pleaded  his  cause  before  the 
little  Community,  which  at  that  time  numbered  only 
twenty-three.  Serious  consideration  was  given  to  the 
matter  and  it  was  fervently  recommended  to  God  in 
prayer.  The  words  of  the  good  Bishop  had  so  fired  them 
with  zeal  for  souls,  that  all  of  them  volunteered,  hence 
it  was  decided  to  choose  seven  for  this  far  away  mission. 

A  short  time  previous.  Mother  Warde's  two  terms  hav- 
ing expired.  Mother  Mary  Cecilia  Maher,  her  cousin,  was 

18 


SAINT  XAVIER'S— CHICAGO 

elected.  On  her  fell  the  duty  of  selecting  subjects  for 
Pittsburg,  and  she  felt  Mother  Warde  would  be  the  best 
choice  for  Superior.  Her  companions  were  Sister  Mary 
Josephine  Cullen,  Sister  Mary  Elizabeth  Strange,  Sister 
Mary  Aloysius  Strange,  Sister  Mary  Philomena  Reed, 
Sister  Mary  Veronica  McDarby  and  Sister  Margaret 
O'Brien,  a  postulant.  Little  did  this  postulant  know  what 
a  life  of  self-denial  was  awaiting  her,  for,  in  a  few  short 
years,  she  was  selected  for  the  foundation  in  Chicago. 

All  Souls'  Day,  1843,  witnessed  the  trying  separation 
from  all  they  loved  so  well — Sisters,  parents,  friends,  as 
they  looked  their  last  on  the  pretty  town  of  Carlow. 
Taking  carriages  for  Naas  they  stayed  one  night  with 
their  affectionate  Sisters.  The  next  morning  saw  them 
on  their  way  to  Dublin,  where  Mother  Delaney  in  Bag- 
got  Street  gave  them  warmest  welcome.  Here  they 
prayed  at  the  grave  of  their  beloved  Mother  Foundress 
and  spent  many  happy  moments  in  the  dear  old  Chapel, 
where  ten  years  before  Mother  Warde  had  consecrated 
her  life  by  vow  to  the  good  God. 

At  eight  o'clock  November  4,  they  were  present  at 
Benediction  and  then  took  their  departure  for  Kingston ; 
thence  they  sailed  for  Liverpool.  Here  again  they  had 
the  happiness  of  meeting  some  of  their  Sisters.  Novem- 
ber 10,  the  largest  vessel  crossing  the  Atlantic,  The 
Queen  of  the  West,  was  ready  to  sail  from  Liverpool  and 
our  travelers  arrayed  by  order  of  Superiors,  in  secular 
garb,  went  aboard.  At  12  M.  the  vessel  weighed  anchor 
and  the  voyage  was  begun,  a  stormy  one  it  proved  to  be. 
Several  times  it  seemed  certain  that  the  vessel  could  no 
longer  stand  the  strain.  The  good  Captain  requested 
Bishop  O'Conner  to  conduct  religious  exercises  which  he 
continued  daily  until  reaching  New  York.  He  was  a 
natural  orator  and  the  non-Catholic  ministers  on  board 
showed  him  great  respect.  Many  steerage  and  cabin  pas- 
sengers were  very  ill,  and  the  Sisters  ministered  freely 
to  them.    During  the  second  week  the  storm  abated  and 

19 


SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

the  gentlemen  formed  a  Society,  with  Bishop  O'Conner  as 
President.  The  Sisters  were  invited  and  the  Bishop  de- 
sired them  to  contribute  essays,  which  he  read  to  the 
great  satisfaction  of  all. 

After  a  whole  month  land  was  sighted  December  10, 
to  the  great  relief  of  the  company.  The  Sisters  remained 
on  board  until  the  next  day,  when  they  were  received 
by  Father  Quarter,  the  Bishop-elect  of  Chicago,  and  sev- 
eral others.  They  were  brought  at  once  to  Bishop 
Hughes'  residence,  who  gave  them  a  cordial  welcome  to 
the  United  States  and  then  escorted  the  whole  party  to 
the  Sacred  Heart  Convent.  Madame  Hardy  and  her 
Community  were  exceedingly  kind  and  gave  them  hos- 
pitality for  three  days;  then  they  started  by  rail  for 
Philadelphia.  For  four  days  they  stayed  with  the  Sis- 
ters of  Charity,  and  on  the  eighteenth  once  more  set 
out  by  stage  over  mountains  and  ravines,  where  they 
were  often  forced  to  walk  long  distances. 

Early  on  December  21,  they  reached  Pittsburg  and 
went  to  the  Cathedral  for  Mass  and  Holy  Communion. 
Here  the  Sisters  of  Charity  invited  them  to  the  Orphan 
Asylum,  where  they  rested  until  the  next  day,  when  they 
went  to  the  House  destined  for  them,  a  four-story  build- 
ing on  Penn  Street.  By  Christmas  Day  they  had  the 
house  in  perfect  order;  the  day  after  they  commenced 
the  Visitation  of  the  Sick,  and  on  the  28,  they  began  the 
Retreat  for  renewal  of  vows.  The  bishop  gave  all  the 
instructions  and  meditations,  dwelling  particularly  on 
the  necessity  of  each  one  striving  for  perfection,  thus 
attracting  the  blessing  of  God  on  the  Community.  Sev- 
eral good  subjects  applied  for  admission  and  the  schools 
increased  rapidly.  Work  was  not  wanting,  neither  were 
crosses,  especially  in  the  failing  health,  from  overwork, 
of  some  of  the  best  members.  Mother  Warde  saw  with 
anxiety  that  this  would  soon  deprive  them  of  the  most 
useful  teachers,  hence  she  thanked  God  when  a  charitable 

20 


SAINT  XAVIER'S— CHICAGO 

gentleman  offered  them  several  acres  of  land  on  which 
to  build  a  boarding  school  outside  of  the  city. 

In  1845,  six  Sisters  were  sent  to  open  this  Academy. 
Soon  they  had  fifteen  boarders.  As  some  feared  that 
this  new  venture  would  encroach  on  the  other  works  of 
Mercy  among  the  poor,  and  thus  not  be  in  accordance 
with  the  Rule,  the  good  Bishop  laid  the  matter  before 
Rome,  and  Cardinal  Bamabo  gave  a  willing  sanction  to 
the  undertaking,  it  being  a  work  of  mercy  to  instruct 
youth,  whether  rich  or  poor,  as  well  as  to  train  girls  to 
become  good  women  in  the  future. 

This  institution  became  known  as  St.  Xavier's 
Academy  and  from  the  first  has  been  eminently  success- 
ful. A  free  school  was  soon  opened  in  the  neighborhood, 
making  five  free  schools  in  the  diocese  besides  three  Con- 
vents. 

The  first  hospital  in  Western  Pennsylvania  was  opened 
New  Year's  Day,  1847,  under  the  patronage  of  the 
Mother  of  Mercy;  since  those  early  days  it  has  acquired' 
great  fame.  The  orphan  asylum  had  been  under  the 
care  of  the  Sisters  since  the  previous  year,  and  so  the 
work  grew  apace  until  it  was  necessary  to  apply  for  help 
to  the  various  houses  of  the  Order  in  Ireland.  In  this 
way  five  more  members  were  added  to  the  Community. 

Much  more  might  be  said  of  this  interesting  founda- 
tion; of  the  beautiful  though  laborious  lives  and  happy 
peaceful  deaths  of  those  zealous  pioneers.  From  the  be- 
ginning the  mark  of  God's  love  was  with  them,  sufferings 
and  labor.  However,  it  was  His  work  and  He  did  not 
let  it  fall  through,  neither  did  He  limit  it  to  Pennsyl- 
vania, as  we  shall  see  in  the  sequel.  Mother  Warde's 
influence  in  many  ways  was  a  great  controlling  power; 
she  lived  to  a  fine  old  age  (74)  spreading  the  good  work 
and  founding  many  houses;  Chicago,  then  in  the  wild 
west,  was  the  first  foundation  from  Pittsburg. 

Rev.  Mother  Warde  celebrated  her  Golden  Jubilee  in 

21 


SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

1883  and  the  following  stanzas  were  written  for  the 
occasion  by  Rev.  E.  Hill,  C.P.,  an  English  convert  and 
author : 

"  'Twas  a  jubilee  day,  our  first  Mother's  first  daughter, 
When  setting  your  face  towards  the  Western  afar. 

You  braved  the  long  leagues  of  the  storm-haunted  water. 
To  follow  the  Shining  of  MARY  the  Star. 

"On  toiled  the  good  ship,  bringing  nearer  each  morrow. 
Its  message  of  Mercy,  its  burthen  of  love; 

Seven  offerings  of  faith  from  the  'Island  of  Sorrow' 
A  mystical  band,  with  the  seal  of  the  Dove. 

"But  you  were  the  chief  in  the  virginal  Seven ; 

And  lo,  when  their  feet  touched  America's  shore, 
'Twas  the  day  your  Saint  Xavier  landed  in  Heaven, 

And  the  blessing  he  gave  you  abides  evermore. 

"Again  'tis  a  Jubilee  day !  brave,  pious  Mother ! 

Your  daughters  stand  up  in  this  home  of  the  free, 
And  bid  today  echo  the  joy  of  another. 

Which  dawned,  ere  you  followed  the  Star  of  the  Sea. 

"  'Twas  the  morn  of  your  bridal,  the  troth  you  then 
plighted. 

How  faithfully  kept  we  your  children  attest, 
You  may  count  us  by  scores  and  we  greet  you  united 

With  happier  scores  who  have  gone  to  their  rest. 

"This  Jubilee  spousal — this  calm  Golden  Wedding, — 
Lights  up  like  a  sun-set  the  grace-fruited  past, 

And  we  hail  in  the  peace  its  sweet  radiance  is  shedding, 
A  pledge  of  the  glory  to  crown  you  at  last." 


22 


St.  Xavier's,  1873-1901 
2834  Wabash  Ave. 


CHAPTER  THREE 

The  foundation  in  Chicago.  Rt.  Rev.  Bishop 
Quarters,  D.  D.  The  youthful  Sister,  M, 
Agatha  O'Brien,  Superior.  With  four  com- 
panions she  arrives  Sept.  24,  1846. 


CHAPTER  THREE 

When  Bishop  Quarter  of  Chicago  stood  on  the  wharf 
of  New  York  harbor  to  welcome  the  Bishop  of  Pittsburg 
and  the  Sisters  of  Mercy,  he  was  bent  on  having  a  colony 
for  his  diocese ;  therefore,  he  embraced  the  earliest  oppor- 
tunity of  broaching  the  subject  to  Rev.  Mother  Xavier 
Warde.  When  she  tried  to  evade  the  question,  not  know- 
ing anything  of  the  new  country,  especially  the  wild  west, 
he  would  not  take  a  refusal.  Hence,  in  three  years  he 
again  presented  his  urgent  request  and  said  he  had  come 
for  the  Sisters. 

No  longer  feeling  that  she  could  postpone  the  inevita- 
ble. Mother  Warde  consulted  her  Bishop  and  then  looked 
about  for  suitable  missionaries  as  well  as  a  capable 
leader.  The  voyage  had  given  Bishop  O'Conner  an  excel- 
lent opportunity  to  become  acquainted  with  all  the  Sis- 
ters, and  he  did  not  hesitate  to  point  out  Sister  Mary 
Agatha  O'Brien  as  a  person  of  sound,  common  sense  and 
great  stability  of  character.  He  was  not  mistaken  as 
the  sequel  proved. 

Born  in  Queen's  County,  Ireland,  1822,  Margaret 
O'Brien  was  educated  by  the  good  Presentation  nuns 
with  an  older  sister,  who  afterwards  entered  the  Sisters 
of  Mercy  in  Sligo,  and  was  known  as  Sister  Mary  Mag- 
dalene. Margaret  entered  in  Carlow  in  1843  and  was  one 
of  the  first  to  volunteer  for  the  American  mission,  though 
she  was  only  a  postulant  at  the  time. 

Feb.  24,  1844,  she  received  the  white  veil  of  the  novice 
at  the  hands  of  Bishop  O'Conner  in  the  Convent  Chapel 
in  Pittsburg.  Giving  perfect  satisfaction  and  advancing 
daily  in  every  virtue  Sister  Mary  Agatha  made  her  vows 

2^ 


SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

May  5,  1846  in  the  Cathedral  of  Pittsburg  with  Sister 
Mary  Augustine  Goold.  The  good  Bishop  performed  the 
ceremony  giving  an  eloquent  discourse  on  the  religious 
life  and  the  wonderful  merits  in  store  for  those  who 
sacrifice  all  for  the  service  of  God. 

Those  who  formed  the  nucleus  of  the  future  Chicago 
Community  besides  Rev.  Mother  Agatha,  were  Sister 
Mary  Gertrude  McGuire  and  Sister  Mary  Vincent  Mc- 
Girr,  novices,  with  Sister  Eliza  Corbett  and  Sister  Eva 
Schmidt,  two  postulants,  afterwards  known  as  Sister 
Mary  Josephine  and  Sister  Mary  Veronica.  Very  Rev. 
Walter  Quarter,  the  Bishop's  brother  had  been  commis- 
sioned by  him  to  conduct  the  Sisters  to  their  future 
home.  On  Friday,  September  18,  1846,  the  religious  set 
out  on  their  tedious  journey  for  the  "City  of  the  Plain," 
accompanied  by  Rev.  Mother  Warde.  On  the  Ohio  river 
they  went  as  far  as  Beaver,  Penn.,  there  they  chartered 
a  stage  to  Poland,  O.,  where  they  stayed  one  night.  Next 
morning,  they  boarded  a  stage  for  Cleveland,  which  they 
reached  Saturday  night  after  a  very  tiresome  journey. 

Sunday  morning  they  were  present  at  Mass  and  in  the 
evening  went  on  board  the  Oregon  on  the  choppy  waters 
of  Lake  Erie.  A  severe  storm  almost  engulfed  the  little 
vessel  during  the  night.  Reaching  Detroit,  they  were 
obliged  to  disembark,  although  it  had  been  arranged  they 
should  go  the  rest  of  the  way  by  water.  They  were  told 
"There  was  no  room  for  them,"  as  other  passengers  had 
made  arrangements  previously.  Had  they  known  this 
in  time,  they  might  have  taken  passage  on  another  vessel. 

Their  stay  over  in  Detroit  was  made  as  pleasant  as 
possible  for  them  by  Bishop  Lefevre,  and  on  Tuesday 
they  started  for  Kalamazoo,  which  they  reached  Wednes- 
day morning  after  incredible  discomfort.  Here  they 
took  the  stage  for  St.  Joseph,  Michigan,  where  they  for- 
tunately arrived  in  time  to  board  the  Sam  Ward,  a  small 
steamer  just  leaving  for  Chicago. 

After  a  storaiy  night  and  a  cool  day  on  Lake  Mich- 

26 


SAINT  XAVIER'S— CHICAGO 

igan,  they  reached  Chicago  at  4:00  P.M.  Sept.  24,  the 
Feast  of  Our  Lady  of  Mercy.  When  they  landed  no  one 
awaited  them  after  their  wearisome  journey  of  six  days 
and  nights.  As  it  was  supposed  the  whole  of  it  would 
be  made  by  water,  they  were  not  expected  so  soon 
and  no  preparations  had  been  made  for  their  coming. 
Landing  almost  opposite  the  Episcopal  Cottage  on  Mich- 
igan Avenue,  they  went  at  once  to  announce  their  arrival. 
The  good  Bishop  Quarter  cordially  welcomed  the  weary 
travelers  and  took  them  to  St.  Mary's  Cathedral,  a  very 
unpretentious  building  one  block  west,  on  the  comer  of 
Wabash  Avenue  and  Madison  Street.  There  they  laid 
down  their  burden  at  the  Master's  feet  and  heartily 
thanked  Him  for  their  safe  arrival.  Then  came  the 
housing  of  the  little  band.  Bishop  Quarter  vacated  his 
own  home,  which  was  only  a  poor  little,  one-story,  frame 
building ;  yet  it  was  a  palace  compared  with  that  to  which 
he  retired  on  this  occasion.  The  one  he  left  for  the 
Sisters  was  described  by  them  as  a  sieve  in  summer  and 
a  shell  in  winter,  but  his  fatherly  kindness  compensated 
them;  this  humble  Prelate  said  Mass  for  them  daily  as 
long  as  he  lived. 

In  a  short  time  the  Sisters  opened  a  school  in  the  old 
frame  Church,  in  the  rear  of  the  Cathedral.  Unable  to 
give  the  material  aid  he  wished,  the  Bishop  advised  Rev. 
Mother  Mary  Agatha  to  write  to  the  Society  for  the 
Propagation  of  the  Faith  in  Lyons  for  pecuniary  assist- 
ance. In  reply  the  Society  sent  $4,000  and  three  large 
oil  paintings,  copies  of  old  masters — one,  "The  Agony  in 
the  Garden";  another,  "Mater  Dolorosa";  the  third  one 
was  the  "Holy  Family,"  and  was  not  quite  so  large  as 
the  others.  They  were  saved  from  the  fire  in  1871  and 
are  still  in  possession  of  the  Sisters,  who  look  on  them 
as  great  relics  of  early  days. 

Mother  Xavier  Warde,  who  had  accompanied  the 
missionaries  to  Chicago,  remained  to  see  them  settled; 

27 


SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

and  then  she  left  by  stage,  Dec.  27,  for  distant  Pitts- 
burgh. 

The  particulars  of  this  eventful  journey  would  be  well 
worth  relating,  but  we  will  confine  ourselves  to  a  few 
incidents  to  illustrate  the  hardships  of  such  an  under- 
taking seventy  years  ago. 

In  a  boat-shaped  wagon  filled  with  rough  men,  she 
managed  to  slip  into  a  little  corner  set  apart  for  mail 
bags.  For  two  days  and  two  nights  without  a  familiar 
face  and  without  a  morsel  of  food  she  bravely  held  this 
little  fort,  having  only  her  prayerbook  and  Imitation  of 
Christ  to  occupy  her  time. 

Part  of  the  journey  was  made  in  an  ox-cart,  the  jolting 
of  which  caused  every  bone  in  her  body  to  ache.  At  the 
wayside  taverns  black  bread  and  black  coffee  with  whisky 
could  be  had,  but  she  feared  to  leave  her  nook  after  she 
saw  the  terrible  sea  of  wild  faces  surrounding  the 
hostelries.    How  she  longed  for  the  face  of  a  woman! 

On  the  morning  of  the  third  day  Toledo  was  in  sight. 
There  she  met  the  first  of  her  sex  since  she  left  Chicago, 
in  the  person  of  a  kind-hearted  Irish  girl — a  chamber- 
maid in  the  hotel,  who  was  delighted  when  she  recognized 
the  religious,  though  she  was  garbed  as  a  secular,  for 
safety,  in  those  know-nothing  times. 

On  learning  there  was  a  Catholic  Church  in  town,  she 
ordered  a  conveyance  to  bring  her  to  Mass  next  morning. 
A  storm  had  arisen  during  the  night,  but  the  traveler 
started  at  the  appointed  time.  After  going  some  distance 
the  driver  stopped  and  said  he  would  go  no  farther, 
neither  would  he  bring  her  back,  so  there  was  no 
alternative  but  to  start  on  foot  through  the  blinding 
snow;  she  found  the  Church  and  she  was  happy  in 
hearing  Mass  and  receiving  Holy  Communion.  Good 
Father  de  Goesbriand,  afterward  the  Bishop  of  Burling- 
ton, Vt.,  treated  her  with  great  kindness  that  day  and 
saw  that  she  got  back  safe  to  the  hotel. 

Next  morning  she  left  in  a  stage-coach,  which  broke 

28 


SAINT  XAVIER'S— CHICAGO 

down  at  the  end  of  ten  miles.  All  were  ordered  out, 
except  the  lady;  they  were  directed  to  go  to  the  woods 
and  find  logs  to  raise  the  wheels  out  of  the  deep  rut. 
After  two  hours  they  returned  and  two  hours  more  were 
spent  in  lifting  the  sunken  wheels.  Then  they  proceeded 
on  their  journey.  At  Sandusky  a  crowd  entered  the  coach 
and  at  10:00  p.m.  another  accident  occurred.  All  were 
obliged  to  alight ;  two  yoke  of  oxen  were  brought  from  a 
farm  house  to  aid  the  horses  in  extricating  the  vehicle 
from  the  hole  into  which  it  had  fallen.  Starting  on 
again  they  came  to  a  hilly  region  toward  morning.  As 
there  was  great  danger  in  going  down  the  steep  hills,  the 
men  were  obliged  to  descend  once  more  to  hold  back  the 
horses  from  tumbling  head-foremost  into  the  ravine. 

Once  an  iron  bar  from  the  roof  of  the  wagon  fell  on 
her  head  and  stunned  her.  A  pretty  place  called  Browns- 
ville was  finally  reached  and  a  good  supper  was  set  before 
them,  but  Mother  Warde  had  been  fasting  so  long  she 
was  ill  and  food  had  no  attraction  for  her,  neither  could 
she  take  time  to  sleep  as  the  boat  was  to  start  at  mid- 
night, and  she  thought  best  to  embark  at  once.  She  was 
the  only  lady  in  the  coach,  but  she  communed  in  silence 
with  her  God,  and  seemed  to  be  oblivious  of  the  crowd 
of  rough  men,  among  whom  she  patiently  sat  until  they 
reached  Pittsburgh  at  half-past  three  the  next  morn- 
ing. She  was  not  acquainted  with  the  part  of  the  city 
where  she  landed ;  no  one  awaited  her,  and  she  could  not 
procure  a  conveyance.  Hers  was  a  brave  soul,  and  she 
resolved  to  walk;  but  in  what  direction  was  the  convent? 
Soon  she  met  an  old  man  who  told  her  to  go  to  Penn 
Street  and  she  would  probably  be  able  to  locate  it.  For 
a  moment  she  was  terrified  at  finding  herself  alone  at 
that  early  hour  long  before  daybreak,  but  as  usual  she 
reflected  that  God  was  with  her  and  trusting  in  Provi- 
dence she  reached  the  Convent. 

It  was  fully  half  an  hour  before  any  one  heard  the 
door-bell,  then  a  head  protruded  from  a  top  window  and 

29 


SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

a  voice  asked,  "Who's  there?"  Recognizing  Mother 
Warde,  she  exclaimed,  "Oh,  oh!  It's  Reverend  Mother." 
Hurrying  down  with  another  sister,  they  found  her 
saturated  with  water  and  mud.  Retiring  at  once  to  her 
httle  cot,  she  became  so  prostrated  that  she  could  retain 
nothing.  Medical  aid  was  necessary  and  the  physician 
said  if  she  attempted  to  sit  up  she  might  collapse  and 
perhaps  expire. 

So  for  ten  days  she  hovered  between  life  and  death, 
but  her  naturally  vigorous  constitution  gained  the  victory 
and  she  was  once  more  amongst  the  Sisters. 

The  Chicago  Mission,  which  nearly  cost  good  Mother 
Warde  her  life,  was  blessed  by  God,  though  it  thrived 
through  many  tribulations. 

On  the  same  day  on  which  she  left  Chicago,  Miss  Mary 
Monholland  arrived  from  New  York  to  enter  the  new 
community.  A  strong  character  of  much  experience  and 
older  than  the  others,  she  was  a  great  assistance  in 
financial  affairs.  We  will  have  occasion  to  write  at 
length  about  her,  as  in  time  she  became  the  fourth 
Superior  of  St.  Xavier's  and  was  known  as  Rev.  Mother 
Francis.  Her  journey  to  Chicago  was  even  more  remark- 
able in  a  way  than  Mother  Warde's  return  trip.  Part 
of  it  was  made  by  boats  on  the  Great  Lakes,  which  are 
inland  seas.  On  Lake  Michigan  a  storm  arose  and  the 
travelers  were  very  much  alarmed.  The  vessel  was 
driven  toward  the  Milwaukee  shore,  but  could  not  reach 
it.  At  last  an  immense  wave  swept  over  the  deck  carry- 
ing many  passengers  with  it  into  the  seething  waters, 
Mary  Monholland  amongst  the  rest.  The  people  of  Mil- 
waukee worked  bravely  to  save  the  unfortunate  travelers. 
W.  B.  Ogden,  afterward  Chicago's  first  Mayor,  witnessed 
the  catastrophe  and  saved  some  of  the  drowning  pas- 
sengers. Seeing  Mary  Monholland  struggling  in  the 
water,  he  succeeded  in  seizing  her  and  raising  her,  as  she 
was  small,  on  his  shoulders  and  brought  her  to  land. 
After  some  hours'  rest  and  procuring  dry  clothing,  Mary 

30 


SAINT  XAVIER'S— CHICAGO 

hired  a  vehicle  to  convey  herself  and  some  companions 
to  Chicago,  where  they  arrived  at  last,  minus  their  prop- 
erty, but  thankful  to  God  for  their  narrow  escape. 

It  cannot  be  out  of  place  to  epitomize  the  beautiful 
personality  of  the  first  Superior  of  the  Chicago  House, 
Rev.  Mother  Agatha  O'Brien.  Only  twenty-four  when 
selected  to  bear  the  burden  of  such  a  work,  she  certainly 
was  well  qualified  to  be  the  faithful  guide  and  tender 
Mother  of  those  zealous  pioneers,  "A  sound  mind  in  a 
sound  body"  was  surely  hers,  as  she  was  blessed  with  a 
robust  constitution,  and  used  to  say  during  the  first  half 
dozen  years  in  Chicago  that  she  knew  not  what  it  was  to 
be  weak  or  sick.  Yet  she  excelled  in  kind  consideration 
for  the  delicate  members,  as  well  as  for  the  sick-poor 
whom  she  visited  regularly  in  her  turn. 

It  was  a  source  of  great  anxiety  to  her  to  see  her 
Sisters  suflfering  such  privations,  that  in  a  short  time 
several  were  broken  down  in  health,  though  not  in  spirit. 
Her  gentle  kindness,  even  to  outsiders,  was  a  source  of 
much  comfort  to  many  afflicted  families,  and  she  reaped 
a  plentiful  harvest  in  a  short  time  by  winning  many  poor 
souls  to  God.  Firmness  was  a  characteristic  virtue,  and 
she  knew  just  when  to  use  this  admirable  trait. 

On  one  occasion,  hearing  a  Sister  complain  of  not 
having  sufficient  time  to  get  ready  for  confession,  she 
said :  "A  Sister  of  Mercy  should  at  all  times  be  prepared 
for  Confession,  as  she  makes  examen  of  conscience  twice 
daily." 

Mother  Mary  Scholastica,  who  was  professed  by  her, 
often  relates  beautiful  little  anecdotes  concerning  her. 
Sister  Mary  Angela  and  Sister  Mary  Victoire,  two  more 
of  her  novices,  cannot  say  enough  to  express  the  great 
affection  of  the  early  Sisters  for  their  dear,  good  Mother. 
Then,  too,  our  dear,  departed  Rev.  Mother  Genevieve 
was  always  filled  with  admiration  when  she  recalled  the 
tender  memories  of  the  happy  days,  when  Rev.  Mother 
Agatha  was  in  their  midst.    When  asked  by  the  writer 

31 


SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

of  the  A7uials  of  her  impressions  conceniing  this  dear 
IMother,  at  a  time  when  she  was  filling  the  same  office 
lierself,  ]Mother  Genevieve  replied:  "All  my  impressions 
of  our  beloved  ^lother  are  of  the  most  pleasing  kind.  She 
was  one  of  those  favored  souls  whom  no  one  can  know 
without  loving.  The  heavenly  peace  of  her  soul  was 
reflected  on  her  countenance.  Her  very  look  was  an  exlior- 
tation  to  -piety.  I  used  to  love  to  sit  by  her  and  listen  to 
her  wise  counsels.  Often  when  near  her  I  thought  of  the 
poor  Indian  who  said  to  St.  Francis  Xavier,  'Father,  if  I 
go  to  heaven  I  want  to  be  near  you.'  Her  religious  life  was 
short  but  full  of  merit.  She  had  many  trials,  but  she 
bore  them  all  in  silence,  like  a  saint." 

Rev.  ^Mother  Agatha  vras  of  medium  height,  of  dark 
complexion,  with  expressive  bro^^^"l  eyes.  She  was  not 
handsome,  but  was  bright  and  animated,  having  a 
peculiarly  wonderful  personality  and  commanding 
appearance.  When  she  stepped  into  a  class-room,  the 
significant  way  in  which,  we  are  told,  she  took  her  posi- 
tion, together  with  the  genial,  motherly  way  in  which 
she  exercised  her  authority',  gives  some  idea  of  why  she 
was  considered  exceptional  in  mind  and  person. 


S8 


i 


SAINT  XAVIER'S— CHICAGO 


It  Is  Not  Always  May 

Life's  blossoms  lie  within  our  paths, 
The  birds  make  tuneful  lay ; 

The  flowers,  too,  now  cheer  us  on, 
But  'tis  not  always  May. 

All  things  rejoice  in  youth  and  love. 
But  they'll  not  live  for  aye ; 

Enjoy  the  sunshine  of  thy  prime. 
Oh!  'tis  not  always  May. 

Ah  no!  cold  winter's  angry  blasts 
May  drive  your  hopes  away; 

Alas !  too  soon  you'll  know  the  truth, 
That  'tis  not  always  May. 

O  happy  maiden!  thus  live  on, 
And  gather  rosebuds  day  by  day ; 

Be  ready  for  life's  battle-field, 
For  'tis  not  always  May. 

And  so  our  weary  lives  flow  on 
'Mid  many  a  toss  and  spray. 

But  let  us  ever  steer  our  boats 
To  where  'tis  always  May. 

Josie  O'Brien,  '94 


X  0£ 

OS  X 

H 

U.  U 


CHAPTER  FOUR 

The  first  profession  in  Chicago,  1846.  Fol- 
lowed by  the  first  reception.  Sister  Mary 
Vincent  McGirr  professed,  1847.  In  1848 
they  mourned  the  loss  of  their  good  Bishop. 
Three  Sunday  schools — St.  Mary's,  St.  Pat- 
rick's and  Holy  Name. 


Mother  Mary  Vincent  McGirr 
One  of  the  First  Five  Sisters  in  Chicago 


Mother  Mary  Xavier  McCJirr 
Foundress  of  Ottawa,  Illinois  Branch 


CHAPTER  FOUR 

We  noted  previously  that  two  novices  and  two  postu- 
lants came  from  Pittsburgh  with  Rev.  Mother  Agatha, 
for  the  foundation.  Soon  the  time  came  for  the 
profession  of  one  of  them — Sister  Mary  Gertrude.  She 
made  her  vows  in  St.  Mary's  Cathedral,  which  was 
crowded  to  excess,  Nov.  21,  1846. 

The  two  postulants  also  received  the  white  veil,  and 
their  good  father,  the  Bishop,  preached  an  eloquent 
sermon  on  the  origin  of  religious  orders  in  general  and 
the  Mercy  Order  in  particular.  This  was  the  first  cere- 
mony of  the  kind  in  the  West. 

Dec.  8,  1847,  another  solemn  ceremony  took  place  in 
the  Cathedral — the  profession  of  Sister  Mary  Vincent, 
who  was  a  famous  musician,  and  a  very  talented  person 
in  every  way.  People  came  from  far  and  near,  begging 
to  hear  her  sing.  The  organist  on  this  occasion  was 
Mr.  John  Brown,  who  did  ample  justice  to  the  beautiful 
music.  Later,  his  only  daughter  was  a  boarder  in  the 
Academy.  In  the  course  of  time,  as  Mrs.  Hibbard,  she 
sent  her  daughter  to  St.  Xavier's,  and  her  boys  to  Holy 
Angels'  School. 

In  1847  the  new  Convent  was  erected  by  the  Bishop 
next  to  St.  Mary's  Church.  It  was  a  three-story  brick, 
known  as  St.  Xavier's  Academy,  131  Wabash  Avenue, 
and  the  religious  were  happy  to  leave  their  old  quarters 
in  which  the  lives  of  some  of  the  first  members  had  suc- 
cumbed to  exposure.  The  work  seemed  singularly 
blessed  by  God,  thriving  as  it  did  under  the  very  shadow 
of  the  Cross.  Others  came  to  fill  the  vacant  places,  so 
that  in  a  short  time  there  were  sixteen  Sisters  and  two 
hundred  pupils. 

37 


SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

Everything  went  on  successfully  until  the  Lent  of  1848, 
when  sorrow  loomed  again.  This  time  it  seemed  almost 
more  than  they  could  well  bear — it  was  the  loss  of  their 
beloved  father,  the  Bishop.  It  cannot  be  imagined  what 
this  meant  to  the  young  community,  especially  as  it  was 
so  unexpected.  He  was  giving  a  course  of  Lenton  ser- 
mons in  the  Cathedral  and  the  last  was  on  Passion 
Sunday.  At  three  o'clock  next  morning,  April  10,  he 
expired  after  receiving  the  last  Sacraments,  in  the  forty- 
second  year  of  his  age,  of  cerebral  congestion.  Not  quite 
four  years  in  Chicago,  he  had  ordained  twenty-nine 
priests.  When  he  came  there  were  two  priests  in  the 
diocese ;  he  departed  leaving  fifty-three.  He  had  planned 
a  University,  the  germ  of  which  was  St.  Mary's  of  the 
Lake,  with  its  two  professors  and  six  pupils;  he  left  it 
with  eleven  professors,  four  tutors,  one  hundred  and 
twenty-five  students  and  twenty  young  men  preparing  for 
the  priesthood.  Not  a  cent  of  debt  remained  on  any  of 
his  institutions,  but  when  he  died  his  earthly  riches 
amounted  to  one  dime. 

His  venerated  remains  were  kept  five  days,  embalmed 
and  enclosed  in  three  coffins.  According  to  his  own 
desire,  he  was  placed  in  a  tomb  beneath  the  main  altar  of 
his  Cathedral.  After  the  great  fire  in  1871  they  were 
transferred  to  the  vault  in  Calvary,  where  they  remained 
until  1912,  when  Archbishop  J.  E.  Quigley,  having  built 
a  magnificent  mausoleum  in  Mt.  Carmel  Cemetery,  trans- 
ferred the  remains  of  the  deceased  Bishops  left  in  Chi- 
cago, excepting  Bishop  Duggan,  whose  sister  has  a 
private  lot  in  Calvary  and  who  prefers  keeping  her 
brother  where  she  will  be  interred  beside  him.  Bishop 
Foley  is  buried  in  Baltimore. 

Bishop  Quarter's  sudden  demise  seemed  to  paralyze  all 
progress  for  the  time,  but  the  Sisters  of  Mercy  felt  most 
keenly  the  departure  of  their  kind  and  loving  father.  They 
had  looked  to  him  for  advice  and  encouragement  in  every 
way,  and  he  never  was  found  wanting.    After  a  journey 

38 


SAINT  XAVIER'S— CHICAGO 

his  first  visit  on  returning  was  always  to  the  Sisters,  and 
he  would  describe  his  adventures  for  their  entertain- 
ment— how  he  was  for  hours  in  some  yawning  gulch,  was 
in  danger  of  drowning  on  some  roaring  river,  or  was 
in  the  desert  with  wild  beasts  like  his  Master,  in  whose 
service  he  was  always  engaged. 

The  suddenness  of  his  departure  was  felt  in  all  parts 
of  the  diocese,  as  he  was  loved  by  everyone.  He  had 
always  identified  himself  with  the  progress  of  Chicago, 
no  small  share  of  which  was  due  to  his  energy.  Hence 
the  loss  the  city  sustained  by  his  departure  could  not  be 
put  into  words ;  but  the  Sisters  of  Mercy  were  fully  con- 
vinced that  they  had  most  cause  to  grieve  for  their  kind 
and  loving  father. 

Every  non-Catholic  minister  in  the  city  visited  his  holy 
remains  and  vied  with  their  flocks  in  showing  respect  and 
affection  to  his  memory. 

On  the  first  Sunday  of  January,  1848,  the  first  Sodality 
of  the  Children  of  Mary  in  Chicago  was  established  by 
Rev.  Mother  Agatha,  and  sixty  members  were  registered. 

Early  in  1848  the  Bishop  had  requested  that  a  Branch 
House  be  opened  in  Galena,  Illinois,  and  although  the 
Sisters  felt  they  were  hardly  numerous  enough  to  begin 
this  work  so  soon,  Rev.  Mother  Agatha,  with  five  Sisters, 
left  Chicago  May  4  in  a  stage-coach;  they  did  not  reach 
their  destination  for  a  week,  after  an  indescribable  jour- 
ney of  privation,  weariness  and  accidents. 

Although  cordially  received  and  aided  in  every  way, 
in  a  few  months  a  gloom  enshrouded  the  little  household. 
In  August  Rev.  Mother  was  recalled  from  Chicago,  being 
notified  that  dear,  good  Sister  Mary  Gertrude  McGuire, 
the  local  Superior,  was  in  rapid  consumption. 

What  a  trial  this  must  have  been  to  the  good  Mother, 
who  hastened  to  the  death-bed  of  one  whom  she  revered 
as  a  saint.  Sister  Mary  Gertrude  was  the  life  of  the 
house.  The  dignity  of  her  manner  and  her  personal 
beauty  attracted  the  most  indifferent;  but  she  was  ripe 

39 


SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

for  heaven,  and  God  took  her,  Aug.  14,  1848.  In  Father 
Wm.  Quarter's  diary  we  read  concerning  her:  "Never 
have  we  witnessed  such  a  death — so  much  resignation, 
such  piety,  such  confidence  in  the  mercy  of  God." 

A  Sister  who  attended  her  said,  "She  certainly  was  a 
saint."  Endowed  with  great  natural  beauty,  the  super- 
natural far  exceeded  this;  she  seemed  to  grow  more 
beautiful  in  death,  and  several  favors  were  obtained 
through  her  intercession. 

A  letter  written  by  Rev.  Mother  Agatha  a  little  later 
to  Pittsburgh  gives  an  idea  of  the  work  that  was  to  be 
done  by  the  young  community. 

"You  can  scarcely  imagine  the  amount  of  labor  which 
our  dear  Sisters  go  through,  yet  all,  thank  God,  is  perfect 
peace  and  unity,  and  is  not  that  preferable  to  all  things? 

"We  now  have  charge  of  three  Sunday  Schools,  viz.; 
St.  Mary's  (the  Cathedral),  St.  Patrick's,  west,  and  the 
Holy  Name,  north.  These  last  are  about  three  miles  from 
us,  yet  we  have  to  walk,  as  we  are  too  poor  to  own  a 
conveyance  (Street  cars  v/ere  a  thing  unknown  in  those 
days).  We  also  have  two  free  schools,  which  are  well 
attended,  two  asylums  caring  for  one  hundred  and 
twenty-five  orphans,  the  Hospital  and  the  select  day 
school;  from  this  you  may  see  we  are  not  idlers  in  the 
vineyard.  We  have  to  struggle  to  make  ends  meet,  yet 
we  have  all  that  is  strictly  necessary,  and  what  more 
should  a  religious  require? 

"Of  course  we  are  dreadfully  crushed  for  want  of 
room,  as  we  number  forty-six,  but  we  must  have  patience 
until  Providence  sends  the  means  to  build.  We  are  pre- 
paring eight  for  their  holy  profession,  which  will  leave 
us  very  few  white  veils — only  four.  Our  good  Bishop 
is  very  kind  to  us.  He  says  Mass  in  our  Chapel  every 
morning  and  also  hears  Confessions  every  week.  He  is 
certainly  a  very  holy  man  and  full  of  zeal,  but  this  is 
not  surprising  for  a  Jesuit  (Bishop  Van  de  Velde) .  God 
has  been  the  kindest  of  Fathers  to  me,  He  knows  how 

40 


SAINT  XAVIER'S— CHICAGO 

incapable  I  am  of  guiding  this  community,  so  He  does 
all  for  me  Himself.  With  the  branch  houses  I  have  no 
trouble;  I  always  place  at  the  head  one  who  is  reliable; 
I  never  try  to  drive  nor  torment,  but  treat  all  alike 
kindly,  giving  them  to  understand  that  I  place  confidence 
in  them ;  in  no  instance  have  I  been  disappointed,  D.  G. 
"Most  affectionately  yours, 

"Sister  Mary  Agatha  O'Brien." 

The  following  lines  were  written  by  Rev.  Mother 
Agatha  to  Sister  Mary  Agnes  Hely  on  the  Feast  of 
St.  Agnes: 

DEUS  MEUS  ET  OMNIA 

Whilst  Thou,  0  my  God,  art  my  help  and  defender, 
No  cares  can  o'erwhelm,  nor  terrors  appall; 
The  wiles  and  the  snares  of  this  world  will  but  render 
More  lively  my  hope  in  my  God  and  my  All. 

Yes,  my  Refuge  Thou  art,  in  sorrows  and  danger. 
My  Strength  when  I  suffer,  my  Hope  when  I  fall ; 

My  Comfort  and  Joy  in  this  land  of  the  stranger; 
My  Treasure,  my  Glory,  my  God  and  my  All. 

To  Thee,  dearest  Lord,  will  I  turn  without  ceasing. 
Though  grief  may  oppress  or  sorrows  befall, 

I'll  love  Thee  till  Death  my  poor  spirit  releasing, 
Secures  to  me  Jesus,  my  God  and  my  All. 

And  when  Thou  demandest  the  life  Thou  hast  given. 
With  joy  shall  I  answer  Thy  merciful  call, 

And  quit  Thee  on  earth  but  to  find  Thee  in  Heaven, 
My  portion  forever,  my  God  and  my  All. 

"Deus  cordis  mei  et  pars  mea  Deus  in  aeternum." 
Chicago,  March  8,  1852. 

41 


SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

Nothwithstanding  their  various  avocations,  the  Sisters 
visited  the  sick  in  every  part  of  the  city  frequently ;  they 
had  to  cross  the  drawbridges,  or  as  they  were  called 
"float-bridges,"  of  which  there  were  four — two  to  the 
north  and  two  to  the  west —  but  these  were  all  swept 
away  in  1849  by  the  floods. 

One  day  during  the  cholera  epidemic  of  '49,  they  were 
hurrying  to  cross  the  Randolph  Street  float,  to  visit  some 
victims  of  the  plague.  When  they  reached  the  river  they 
saw  with  utter  astonishment  the  following  posted  up: 
"Look  out,  a  man  and  horse  have  just  gone  down  here." 
This  did  not  prevent  the  Sisters  from  going  where  duty 
called  them,  so  they  went  to  the  drawbridge  on  Kinzie 
Street,  where  they  finally  got  across.  There  they  found 
many  sufferers  without  any  one  to  care  for  them,  and 
some  dying  in  horrible  tortures. 

So  many  litle  ones  were  bereft  of  parents,  and  left 
utterly  penniless,  it  was  found  necessary  to  find  a  home 
for  them ;  hence  the  Orphan  Asylum,  established  in  1849, 
in  a  building  known  as  the  Cumberland  House  on  the 
southwest  corner  of  Wabash  Avenue  and  Van  Buren 
Street.  This  was  the  first  asylum  in  Chicago,  and  one 
hundred  and  twenty-five  little  ones  were  here  placed  in 
the  care  of  the  Sisters,  under  the  superintendency  of 
Sister  Mary  Vincent  McGirr. 

In  good  Father  Quarter's  diary  we  find  many  interest- 
ing notes.    Concerning  the  Sisters  we  read : 

"Jan.  1,  1849 — Four  of  the  Sisters  of  Mercy  renewed 
their  vows  this  morning  at  Mass ;  it  was  indeed  solemn." 

He  does  not  say  why  there  were  not  more.  Six  had 
gone  to  the  new  foundation  in  Galena  and  others  had 
gone  to  their  heavenly  home. 

Jan.  31,  1849 — He  records  as  follows:  "On  this  day 
the  children  of  the  Academy  had  their  quarterly  exer- 
cises. It  was  truly  delightful  to  witness  the  marked 
improvement  in  all.  Many  parents  and  other  citizens 
were  present,  and  all  left  highly  pleased,  for  every  num- 

42 


SAINT  XAVIER'S— CHICAGO 

ber  was  done  to  admiration  and  gave  the  greatest  satis- 
faction. Truly  it  may  be  said  the  good  Sisters  of  Mercy 
are  a  blessing  to  Chicago  and  to  the  Diocese.  Oh!  if 
she,  who  was  the  founder  of  the  establishment,  were  here 
today  how  she  would  rejoice !  But  she  was  not  forgotten, 
R.  I.  P. 

"Feb.  22,  1851 — Four  Sisters  were  sent  to  take  charge 
of  the  temporary  hospital,  opened  at  the  Lake  House, 
North. 

"Feb.  27,  1851 — Articles  of  agreement  drawn  up  and 
signed  with  respect  to  the  services  of  the  Sisters  at  the 
Lake  House  Hospital,  and  arrangements  made  for  erect- 
ing a  hospital  under  the  new  charter,  to  be  commenced 
if  possible  this  year." 

One  very  important  date  cannot  be  overlooked,  as  it 
shows  the  doings  of  those  early  days  in  Chicago's  pioneer 
school.    It  is  given  very  minutely,  as  follows : 

"Of  the  many  happy  scenes  which  I  have  had  the 
pleasure  of  witnessing  during  the  past  few  weeks,  none 
has  left  upon  memory's  page  so  sweet  a  remembrance  as 
that  which  I  had  the  honor  of  attending  at  the  above 
mentioned  institution;  indeed,  I  must  acknowledge  in 
justice  to  all  concerned  in  the  Academy,  that  it  is  a  credit 
to  them  and  an  honor  to  the  'Garden  City/ 

"The  exhibition  of  this  year  was  one  of  unusual 
interest,  and  called  forth  the  admiration  and  the  high- 
est encomiums  of  those  who  had  the  pleasure  of  being 
present;  upon  no  similar  occasion  have  I  been  so  pleas- 
ingly entertained.  After  spending  some  three  hours  in 
the  most  agreeable  scenes  possible  and  which  only 
seemed  like  moments,  I  made  my  exit,  feeling  myself 
more  than  doubly  gratified  with  my  morning  visit  to  the 
Academy  of  St.  Francis  Xavier,  being  well  convinced  of 
its  rapid  advancement.  But  a  few  years  since  it  might 
be  styled  the  little  grain  of  mustard  seed  which,  being 
planted  in  good  soil,  seems  to  improve  and  spread  forth 
its  branches  throughout  the  State.    It  is  an  incorporated 

43 


SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

institution,  and  entitled  to  all  rights  and  privileges 
annexed  thereto ;  and  under  the  friendly  auspices  of  the 
indefatigable  and  zealous  Bishop  of  Chicago,  and  the 
guidance  of  the  Good  Sisters  of  Mercy  it  is  going  on 
admirably.  Here,  it  may  not  be  deemed  out  of  place  to 
remark  that  it  is  an  elegant  building  and  situated  in  the 
most  beautiful  spot,  commanding  an  agreeable  view  of 
Lake  Michigan,  and  a  square  from  its  banks,  surrounded 
with  everything  that  could  render  it  desirable  as  a  suit- 
able place  for  the  instruction  and  training  of  youth  and 
health  combined,  and  the  glow  of  health  which  pervaded 
the  cheeks  of  the  young  and  blooming  youthful  inmates 
on  this  interesting  occasion  spoke  volumes  in  its  favor. 

"Viewed  at  a  distance  from  the  lake,  the  Academy, 
adjoining  St.  Mary's  Cathedral,  whose  radiant  spire, 
heavenward  pointing,  one  may  see  from  afar,  amid  the 
beauteous  trees  that  surround  it  and  that  olfer  an 
agreeable  shade,  presents  an  admirable  and  highly 
picturesque  appearance. 

"The  closing  exercises  took  place  on  the  morning  of 
the  21st  ult.,  at  half -past  ten  o'clock.  The  audience,  con- 
sisting of  the  relatives  of  the  pupils  and  friends  of  the 
institution,  was  large  and  respectable. 

"But  now  for  a  brief  description  of  the  doings  of  the 
morning.  The  exercises  were  occasionally  varied  with 
music  and  recitations ;  the  latter  were  particularly  inter- 
esting, and  displayed  on  the  part  of  the  young  ladies  an 
excellent  knowledge  of  the  principles  of  elocution.  Among 
the  many  pieces  recited  on  the  occasion,  I  was  particu- 
larly gratified — nay,  delighted — with  the  "Panorama  of 
Europe,"  in  twenty-four  characters,  each  personating 
some  country  in  Europe,  and  being  interrogated  by  a 
sweet,  innocent  young  lady,  who  was  seated  upon  a  high 
chair  (on  inquiring,  I  was  informed  that  she  was  one  of 
the  first  pupils  in  the  Academy)  under  a  canopy  of 
evergreens,  ornamented  with  garlands  of  roses  and  other 
beautiful  flowers  natural  to  the  season.    At  a  short  dis- 

44 


SAINT  XAVIER'S— CHICAGO 

tance  from  her  sat  in  state  in  a  splendid  armchair 
(worked  by  one  of  the  young  pupils  expressly  for  the 
occasion)  a  sweet  young  lady  of  some  sixteen  years,  in 
all  the  bloom  and  loveliness  of  youth,  representing  the 
Queen  of  England,  wearing  a  crown  upon  her  head  inter- 
woven with  flowers  of  the  most  delicate  hue.  On  one  side 
of  her  stood  Scotland,  represented  in  a  suit  of  plaid  with 
an  ancient  highland  bonnet;  on  her  left  was  Ireland, 
dressed  in  a  beautiful  green  mantle,  with  devices  denoting 
antiquity,  and  reclining  upon  Ireland's  national  emblem, 
the  harp  which  was  unstrung,  to  denote  that  joy  had 
ceased  among  a  suffering  people.  The  whole  scene  was 
indescribably  beautiful,  grand  and  imposing,  but  too 
lengthy  to  enter  into  minute  detail.  Suffice  to  say  that 
each  one  played  her  part  well.  This  piece  was  concluded 
by  the  entrance  of  an  Indian  chief,  dressed  in  full  costume 
and  bearing  the  national  flag,  at  whose  entrance  one  of 
the  young  ladies  played,  most  beautifully,  the  "Star 
Spangled  Banner,"  and  to  which  all  promenaded  around 
the  stage  and  retired,  to  the  admiration  of  all  those  who 
were  present.  The  historical  and  geographical  facts 
represented  in  this  piece  will  never  be  erased  from  the 
minds  of  the  youthful  band  who  acquitted  themselves 
with  so  much  ability ;  and  upon  no  similar  occasion  have  I 
been  so  truly  gratified.  Many  of  the  young  pupils  evinced 
a  high  degree  of  musical  proficiency  in  the  exercises  per- 
formed on  the  piano.  Then  followed  the  distribution  of 
premiums,  which  were  rich  and  beautiful,  to  say  the 
least.  The  closing  address,  by  Miss  H.  0.  T.,  was  truly 
touching  and  appropriate,  and  merited  the  highest  en- 
comiums for  the  youthful  speaker,  who  was  herself 
moved  to  tears,  and  of  whose  real  worth  and  superior 
talents  too  much  could  not  be  said.  The  whole  affair 
passed  off  in  a  manner  creditable  to  the  young  pupils  and 
those  connected  with  the  institution,  and  merits  for  them 
both  patronage  and  encouragement." 

"I  have  been  informed  upon  inquiry  that  the  institu- 

45 


SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

tion  will  resume  its  duties  on  the  25th  of  August,  when 
I  wish  them  the  liberal  patronage  that  their  exertions 
so  richly  merit." 

An  extract  from  a  Catholic  paper  of  Chicago  in  1852 
makes  the  following  statement:  "The  Sisters  of  Mercy- 
have  many  claims  on  the  people  of  Chicago.  They  have 
under  their  care  an  Orphan  Asylum,  where  nearly  three 
hundred  destitute  children  find  in  the  good  Sisters  all 
a  mother's  care  and  attention.  God  bless  the  founders 
of  religious  orders,  for,  contemplating  them  even  from 
a  worldly  point  of  view,  are  they  not  true  benefactors 
of  humanity?" 

In  the  Western  Tablet  of  Aug.  21,  1852,  we  read  of  a 
reception  in  the  Convent:  "Since  the  first  establishment 
of  a  branch  of  the  Order  of  Mercy  in  this  city,  some  six 
years  have  now  elapsed,  and  during  this  short  period 
vast  and  incalculable  is  the  amount  of  good  that  has  been, 
and  is  daily  being  effected  by  the  members.  Like  the 
devoted  daughters  of  St.  Vincent,  they  shelter  in  their 
asylums — institutions  for  which  we  are  indebted  to  the 
untiring  exertions  of  the  good  and  saintly  Bishop — and 
train  up  with  a  mother's  tenderness  and  vigilance,  to 
virtue  and  usefulness,  a  large  number  of  male  and  female 
orphans  who,  else,  would  now  be  homeless  little  wan- 
derers in  the  crowded  thoroughfares  of  our  city  and 
deeply  contaminated,  perhaps,  with  its  corruption  and 
vices.  In  their  hospital,  too,  which,  with  the  asylums, 
has  been  recently  incorporated  by  an  Act  of  the  Legisla- 
ture, they  are  assiduous  in  their  ministrations  by  the 
bedside  of  the  sick  and  dying;  soothing  with  kind  and 
gentle  words  their  afflictions  and  binding  up,  like  com- 
passionate Samaritans,  their  bruised  and  sorrow- 
crushed  hearts.  Whilst  in  their  academies  and  schools 
there  is  imparted  a  healthy,  solid  and  refined  education. 

"The  invaluable  services,  rendered  daily  by  this  devoted 
Sisterhood  to  the  Catholics  of  Chicago,  give  them  many 
strong  claims  upon  their  gratitude  and  support;  and  we 

46 


SAINT  XAVIER'S— CHICAGO 

are  happy  to  witness  a  deep  and  grateful,  yet  due,  appre- 
ciation on  the  part  of  the  people,  of  these  excellent 
ladies'  merits  and  usefulness." 


THE  ST.  XAVIER  HYMN 

To  Our  Lady  of  Mercy 


Our  Lady  of  Mercy,  sweet  and  pure, 

We  gather  round  thy  shrine, 
As  near  to  thee  we  feel  secure, 

From  danger  and  from  crime. 
Our  garlands  at  our  Mother's  feet 

We  place  with  loving  care. 
And  raise  our  voices  loud  to  greet 

Our  Queen  and  Lady  fair. 


Chorus 

Our  Lady  of  Mercy,  sweet  and  pure, 
In  thy  blest  care  we  are  secure; 
In  mercy  now  thine  aid  bestow. 
On  us,  thy  children,  here  below. 


Thy  Titles  form  a  Coronet 

Of  gems  both  rich  and  rare; 
The  one  we  truly  love  the  best 

Is  Queen  of  Mercy  fair. 
That  name  so  sweet  has  made  thee  ours 

By  every  right  divine, 
And  thou  wilt  plead  with  Mother  Love 

That  we  be  always  thine. 

Chorus 

47 


SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

Thy  loving  heart  will  not  permit 

Our  souls  from  God  to  stray, 
While  here  we  ask  thy  gracious  help 

For  each  and  every  day. 
0  let  thy  mercy  be  our  light 

Until  our  days  are  o'er, 
Then  take  us  'neath  thy  mantle  blue 

To  Heaven's  eternal  shore. 

Chorus 


48 


CHAPTER  FIVE 

Asiatic  cholera  ravages  the  city,  1854.  Four 
Sisters  were  victims  of  this  calamity. 
Amongst  the  number,  Rev.  Mother  Agatha 
O'Brien.  Sister  Mary  Paula  Ruth  chosen  to 
fill  her  place.  A  branch  house  is  opened  in 
Ottawa,  1859. 


CHAPTER  FIVE 

The  year  1854  never  can  be  forgotten  by  the  Mercy 
Sisterhood  in  Chicago.  Asiatic  cholera  ravaged  the  city 
throughout  the  entire  summer.  Fourteen  hundred  and 
twenty-four  persons  succumbed  to  the  fearful  plague. 
Burials — not  always  of  the  dead — were  to  be  seen  day 
and  night. 

The  Sisters  laid  aside  all  other  duties  to  visit  and  care 
for  the  sick,  especially  amongst  the  poor,  and  Rev.  Mother 
Mary  Agatha  took  her  turn  as  faithfully  as  the  others. 
On  July  7  she  went  to  visit  the  Mercy  Hospital,  which 
was  overcrowded  with  poor  suffering  humanity.  Amongst 
the  number  Sister  Mary  Veronica,  one  of  the  Community, 
was  very  ill,  and  the  good  Mother  wanted  to  see  her.  It 
was  a  warm  day ;  she  was  exhausted  after  her  long  walk 
and  overheated.  On  her  return  she  asked  for  a  drink  of 
water.  In  a  short  time  she  was  seized  with  such  violent 
symptoms  that  she  had  scarcely  strength  enough  to  reach 
the  Infirmary.  The  morning  of  the  eighth  of  July  she 
expired  amidst  the  tears  and  prayers  of  her  devoted 
children. 

Two  others  were  soon  in  a  dying  condition  from  the 
same  dire  disease — Sisters  Mary  Bernardine  and  Louis — 
and  on  the  next  day  it  was  a  sad  sight  to  see  two  Sisters 
carried  out  of  the  Convent.  On  the  eleventh,  Sister  Mary 
Veronica  also  died  of  the  same  epidemic  at  the  Hospital. 

The  news  of  Mother  Mary  Agatha's  death  caused  uni- 
versal grief  throughout  the  city,  as  she  was  known  and 
loved  by  all.  How  her  spiritual  daughters  felt  her  loss 
can  never  be  described. 

Surrounded  by  mourning  and  death  on  all  sides,  hear- 

51 


SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

ing  the  cries  of  distress  and  the  wailing  of  the  orphans 
wherever  they  went,  their  weary  spirits  did  not  flag 
until  their  beloved  Mother,  their  guide  and  leader,  was 
stricken  in  the  exercise  of  her  duties.  Then,  indeed,  did 
they  cry  out  from  the  depths  of  their  sorrowing  hearts, 
"Have  mercy  on  us,  O  God,  have  mercy!"  It  seemed  as 
though  a  heavy  cloud  had  settled  over  them,  yet  they 
could  not  neglect  the  sick  and  dying,  and  on  they  went 
as  usual  to  the  daily  task,  knowing  God  would  take  care 
of  them ;  and  so  He  did  as  the  sequel  proves. 

In  about  a  week  it  was  deemed  best  to  elect  a  succes- 
sor to  the  dear,  departed  Mother.  Rev.  James  Duggan, 
the  Administrator,  presided.  After  the  first  scrutiny, 
he  announced  that  the  majority  were  in  favor  of  Sister 
Mary  Paula  Ruth,  who  very  reluctantly  accepted  the 
responsibility. 

Born  in  Killkenny,  Ireland,  her  parents  were  persons 
of  remarkable  piety.  On  her  mother's  side  were  an 
uncle.  Rev.  Joseph  Mackey,  a  priest  in  the  Dublin  Dio- 
cese, and  an  aunt,  Sister  Angela  Mackey,  a  Bridgetine 
nun  in  Mouth  Rath  Convent.  Her  brother.  Rev.  John 
J.  Ruth,  was  then,  and  for  years  after,  a  member  of  the 
Cistercian  Order  in  Mount  Melleray,  Ireland. 

Rev.  Mother  Mary  Paula  was  extremely  exact  in  every 
duty,  and  she  required  of  all  under  her  the  same  exact- 
ness, always  leading  the  way  in  any  difficult  undertaking, 
and  never  requiring  of  others  what  she  did  not  do 
herself. 

The  Saturday  after  election  she  nominated  the  same 
members  for  her  Council  as  Mother  Mary  Agatha  had, 
viz.;  Mother  Mary  Vincent,  Assistant;  Mother  Mary 
Francis,  Bursar,  and  Mother  Mary  Genevieve,  Mistress 
of  Novices. 

Being  rather  young  for  such  a  charge,  only  twenty- 
five,  the  new  Superior  felt  her  responsibility  press 
rather  heavily  on  her,  especially  as  previous  hardships 
had  somewhat  undermined  her  health.    Hence,  it  was  not 

52 


SAINT  XAVIER'S— CHICAGO 

surprising  that  in  about  a  year  she  succumbed  to  dropsy 
of  the  heart,  much  to  the  regret  of  the  entire  Sisterhood, 
for  she  was  a  most  loving  and  lovable  person. 

Rev.  Mother  Mary  Paula  was  found  worthy  in  a 
short  time  to  be  called  to  the  Home  of  the  Blessed.  She 
was  noted  for  her  intense  spirituality,  and  for  her 
endeavors  during  her  short  administration  to  impress  on 
the  minds  of  the  Sisters  the  great  beauty  of  an  energetic 
soul,  working  purely  for  God's  honor  and  glory.  The 
following  letter  to  a  young  Sister  is  characteristic. 

Convent  of  Our  Lady  of  Mercy, 
Chicago,  Aug.  17,  1854. 
My  Dear  Sister  Mary  Camillus: 

It  is  time  for  me  to  acknowledge  the  receipt  of  your 
little  note,  and  indeed  I  desired  very  much  to  do  so  before 
retreat,  but  could  not  find  a  spare  moment. 

Well,  my  dear  Sister  we  have  just  returned  from  the 
desert,  where  in  solitude  our  Divine  Lord  and  Master 
has  spoken  to  our  hearts.  Yes,  He  has  spoken,  and  con- 
fidently do  I  hope  that  each  one  of  us  has  recognized  His 
voice,  and  that  the  sweet  breathings  of  His  Holy  Spirit 
have  not  met  with  opposition  in  our  souls.  We  must 
prove  this  by  our  future  fervor. 

We  will  begin  anew  to  love  and  serve  our  good  God, 
and  our  chief  concern  must  be,  next  to  our  own  sancti- 
fication,  to  diffuse  by  our  fervor  and  perseverance  the 
sweet  odor  of  Jesus  Christ,  our  beautiful  and  loving 
Savior.  And  has  He  not  for  you  and  for  me  assumed 
a  more  loving  appellation? 

O  dear  Sister,  let  us  then  do  something  for  Him,  who 
has  done  so  much  for  us;  and  as  our  beloved  departed 
Rev.  Mother  Mary  Agatha  was  wont  to  inculcate,  our 
desire  to  please  Him  will  be  evinced  by  our  fidelity  in 
small  things  as  well  as  in  great. 

All  here  are  well  at  present.  Pray  earnestly  for  me, 
my  dear  Sister,  and  consider  me  always, 

53 


SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

Your  affectionate  Sister  in  the  Sacred  Heart  of  our 
Lord.  Sister  Mary  Paula. 

Aug.  6,  1855,  Mother  Mary  Vincent  McGirr  was 
elected,  and  she  chose  for  her  Assistant,  Mother  Mary 
Genevieve  Granger;  for  Bursar,  Mother  Mary  Francis 
Monholland,  and  for  Mistress  of  Novices,  Mother  Mary 
de  Chantal.  As  Bursar,  Mother  Mary  Francis  showed 
herself  an  able  financier.  She  not  only  freed  the  Com- 
munity from  debt,  but  also  managed  to  have  a  capital  for 
future  works  of  interest.  At  this  time  the  number  of 
members  was  forty-six.  In  1858  Mother  Mary  Vincent 
was  re-elected,  but  positively  declined  the  office  of 
Superior,  and  Mother  Mary  Francis  was  appointed  to  fill 
the  vacancy.  She  was  a  remarkably  strong  character,  the 
valiant  woman  in  business  matters  and  very  progressive. 
For  three  terms  she  governed  the  Community — the  first 
time  by  the  appointment  of  Bishop  Smith,  who  was  the 
Administrator ;  the  second  time  by  election,  and  the  third 
time  by  dispensation  and  re-election,  Bishop  Duggan 
presiding  both  times. 

She  added  a  fourth  story  to  the  Convent  next  to  St. 
Mary's  Church  and  a  few  years  after  erected  the  new 
five-story  Academy  adjoining  this  on  the  south.  Rev. 
Mother  Mary  Francis  was  a  very  strict  Superior  and 
many  thought  her  too  much  so,  but  she  loved  exact 
observance  and  left  nothing  undone  to  promote  it. 
Religious  discipline  never  relaxed  under  her.  If  she 
seemed  exacting  it  was  always  for  the  sake  of  good  order 
and  the  benefit  of  the  Community,  as  well  as  the  per- 
fection of  the  individual.  She  was  certainly  as  uncom- 
promising with  herself  as  with  others,  even  more  so.  If 
she  was  obliged  to  correct,  she  soon  followed  the  correc- 
tion, sometimes  unsparingly  given,  by  some  little  favor 
which  mollified  the  transgressor;  for  instance,  one  day 
she  saw  some  young  persons  stepping  beyond  the  usual 
bounds  and  she  sternly  called  them  to  order.    Later  in 

54 


SAINT  XAVIER'S— CHICAGO 

the  day  she  surprised  them  just  as  much  in  the  opposite 
direction,  for  she  treated  them  to  a  nice  carriage  ride. 

Rev.  Dean  Terry  of  Ottawa,  111.,  applied  to  Mother 
Mary  Francis  for  a  branch  house,  and  August  20,  1859, 
Sister  Mary  Xavier  McGirr  was  sent  as  local  Superior 
with  six  others,  viz.:  Sisters  Mary  de  Chantal,  Paula, 
Agnes,  Euphrasia,  Magdalene  and  Assissium.  All  these 
dear  good  souls  are  gone  to  their  reward.  The  Golden 
Jubilee  of  the  house  was  kept  in  1909  with  great  eclat. 

It  has  been  an  independent  Community  since  about 
1863,  and  is  now  in  the  Diocese  of  Peoria.  The  people 
have  always  shown  great  affection  and  loyalty  for  the 
Community,  which,  indeed,  deserves  the  best  their 
devoted  friends  can  give  them,  as  it  is  one  of  the  very 
best  houses  of  the  Order  of  Mercy,  not  only  in  an  educa- 
tional, but  also  in  a  religious  way,  preserving  as  it  does 
the  genuine  spirit  of  the  holy  Foundress. 

In  the  meantime  night  schools  had  been  opened  in  St. 
Xavier's  Academy,  and  many  adults  who  had  to  begin 
with  the  alphabet  attended.  Sisters,  who  were  in 
crowded  school  rooms  all  day,  devoted  an  hour  or  more 
each  evening  in  helping  old  ideas  to  give  place  to  new 
ones. 

A  Sodality  of  the  Blessed  Virgin,  which  had  been 
formed  by  Mother  Mary  Agatha,  grew  rapidly,  and  the 
Sodalists  procured  most  favorable  positions.  Many 
developed  religious  vocations,  while  others  were  in  great 
demand  as  reliable  domestics.  A  Rev.  Mr.  C,  afterward 
an  Anglican  Bishop,  having  had  two  Sodalists  in  his 
household  for  years,  declared  when  they  left  the  loss  of 
a  relative  would  give  him  less  pain  than  parting  with 
those  loyal  servants.  It  was  for  this  Sodality  that  the 
first  statue  ever  made  in  Chicago  was  carved — a  white 
marble  statue  of  the  Blessed  Virgin  Mary. 

Mother  Mary  Baptist  Martin  had  charge  of  the  asso- 
ciation, and  learning  that  two  Germans,  father  and  son, 
made  pretty  monuments,  thought  she  might  induce  them 

55 


SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

to  try  their  skill  on  a  statue.  They  were  infidels  and 
promptly  refused  such  work.  A  novena  was  made  by 
the  Sisters  and  Sodalists,  and  on  second  application  the 
son  consented  to  try  secretly.  When  the  beautiful  figure 
began  to  reveal  itself,  the  older  man  accidently  saw  and 
admired  it. 

Unfortunately,  or  perhaps  fortunately — who  can 
say? — the  young  sculptor  developed  not  only  genius  but 
consumption.  He  lived  to  complete  this  lovely  work  of 
art,  and  before  dying  asked  for  a  Catholic  priest,  as  he 
had  learned  to  love  Christ's  Mother. 

The  first  marble  altar  in  Chicago  was  a  gift  to  Rev. 
Mother  Mary  Francis,  on  the  feast  of  St.  Francis  de 
Sales,  1860.  It  was  a  gem  of  its  kind,  but  with  the  beau- 
tiful marble  statue  fell  a  prey  to  the  great  fire  in  1871. 

Visitation  of  the  sick  was  a  daily  duty  of  the  Sisters 
and  the  prisons  were  attended  to  at  least  once  a  week. 
On  one  occasion  two  Sisters  were  sent  to  control  a  set 
of  unruly  females  in  the  jail,  under  the  old  Courthouse. 
**We  can  do  nothing  with  them,  Sisters,"  said  the  jailor, 
as  he  opened  a  door  to  admit  them.  Noticing  he  was 
about  to  lock  them  in,  they  explained  they  could  remain 
only  an  hour.  "All  right;  it's  nine  o'clock  now.  I  will 
come  back  at  ten."  But  he  forgot  all  about  the  Sisters, 
and  for  nine  hours  they  stayed  with  those  erring 
women — praying,  advising — calming  as  best  they  could 
those  turbulent  street  characters,  who  were  on  punish- 
ment for  giving  trouble,  and  deprived  of  their  dinner. 

Many  were  the  excuses  and  denials  of  guilt  given  by 
each  and  all.  "By  what  you  say,"  ventured  one  Sister, 
"this  jail  is  a  home  for  saints,  not  sinners."  "Saints  or 
sinners,  you  are  with  us  for  this  day.  Sister,"  said  one 
who  had  not  spoken  before.  "Try  the  Rosary  again  and 
maybe  we  will  do  better."  For  the  seventh  time  the 
chaplet  of  our  Blessed  Mother  was  said,  and  grace  finally 
prevailed.  Tears  were  flowing  and  promises  fervently 
made,  as  the  key  was  turned  in  the  lock  at  six  o'clock. 

56 


SAINT  XAVIER'S— CHICAGO 

Never  was  a  sound  sweeter  to  mortal  ears.  The 
prisoners  were  hungry  and  quiet.  "A  thousand  pardons, 
Sisters.  I  forgot  all  about  you.  Please,  do  not  report 
me,  or  my  family  will  suffer  for  my  bad  memory." 

When  Bishop  Duggan  heard  of  it  he  related  his  own 
experience  of  a  similar  trial.  He  had  been  locked  up 
twelve  hours  when  he  was  Chaplain  at  the  Court  Jail  in 
St.  Louis,  with  a  prisoner  under  sentence  of  death  for  a 
dreadful  murder.  Finding  his  efforts  to  reconcile  this 
fierce  outlaw  with  his  Maker  useless,  he  read  his  breviary 
and  recited  the  beads  aloud,  at  a  safe  distance  from  the 
heavy  iron  manacles.  Toward  evening  the  patient 
minister  of  God  was  delighted  by  hearing  the  criminal 
whispering  in  tremulous  tones,  "Holy  Mary,  Mother  of 
God,  pray  for  me  now,  and  at  the  hour  of  my  death." 
At  length  he  cried  out,  "Father,  I  will  confess  my  sins, 
and  may  God  have  mercy  on  my  soul !" 

In  the  year  1858,  Dr.  McMullen  had  requested  Mother 
Mary  Francis  to  open  a  House  for  Fallen  Women,  until 
such  time  as  Good  Shepherd  nuns  could  come  from  St. 
Louis  for  its  management.  Under  the  circumstances  she 
consented,  and  a  two-story  frame  building  was  rented 
for  the  purpose  on  Price  Place  near  St.  Patrick's  Church. 
They  commenced  the  good  work,  but  they  were  pleased 
to  hand  it  over  to  the  Good  Shepherd  nuns  when  they 
came,  in  1859.  The  institution  was  soon  removed  to  Hill 
and  Market  Streets,  on  the  ground  which  had  been  pur- 
chased by  Bishop  O'Regan  for  the  site  of  the  Mercy 
Hospital,  but  which  the  Sisters  had  declined  to  use,  as 
he  wished  the  hospital  to  be  Church  property. 

Speaking  of  this  reminds  us  forcibly  of  other  trans- 
actions which  it  may  be  well  to  explain  here.  Bishop 
Quarter's  kind  intentions  regarding  the  future  welfare 
of  the  Sisters  of  Mercy  in  his  diocese  were  well  known  to 
his  brother.  Father  Walter,  who  became  Administrator 
on  the  death  of  the  Bishop,  and  he  thought  it  but  right 
to  carry  them  out  to  the  letter.     Consequently,  he  gave 

57 


SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

them  the  ground  intended  for  them — seventeen  acres 
lying  along  the  north  shore  between  the  lake  and  the  old 
cemetery.  The  lake  receded  considerably  and  the  seven- 
teen acres  became  twenty.  When  Bishop  Van  de  Velde 
came,  he  questioned  the  right  of  the  Administrator  to 
transfer  the  property,  but  the  Sisters  had  the  deeds. 
Later,  Bishop  O'Regan  asked  them  to  exchange  this  lake 
shore  property  for  the  deed  of  the  Convent  and  grounds 
next  to  St.  Mary's  Church,  and  they  complied.  He  also 
gave  them  the  ground  on  which  the  present  Academy  of 
the  Christian  Brothers  stands  near  St.  Patrick's  Church. 
It  was  then  partly  covered  by  an  old  frame  building, 
which  had  been  the  first  Church  on  the  West  Side. 

This  was  fitted  up  for  school  purposes  and  the  Sisters 
taught  there,  the  first  school  on  this  side,  walking  to  it 
daily  from  the  Convent  on  Wabash  Avenue.  If  they 
happened  to  cross  the  river  before  Madison  Street  bridge 
was  opened  they  got  to  school  in  time;  if  not,  they  were 
obliged  to  stand  in  a  crowd  until  all  the  river  craft  sailed 
by.  Sometimes  they  were  on  the  bridge  when  it  swung 
open,  and  there  they  stood  shivering  in  wet  clothes  during 
a  downpour  of  rain,  or  scorching  in  the  rays  of  the  sun. 
There  were  no  cars  on  Madison  Street  then,  and  it  was 
no  easy  matter  to  reach  St.  Patrick's  on  foot.  Once  a 
Sister  lost  an  overshoe  in  a  drift;  another  had  her  feet 
frozen. 

In  1863  Rev.  Dennis  Dunne  D.D,,  asked  that  the  Sisters 
who  taught  at  St.  Patrick's  be  allowed  to  live  in  his 
parish,  but  Mother  Mary  Francis  would  not  consent  and 
Father  Dunn  invited  another  Order  to  take  the  school. 
This  was  pleasing  to  the  Community,  as  the  Sisters  were 
needed  in  other  branches.  For  instance,  St.  John's 
School,  nearer  home,  had  just  been  opened  at  the  request 
of  Rev.  John  Waldron. 

The  school  property  at  St.  Patrick's  was  then  ex- 
changed by  the  Sisters  for  the  two  lots  adjoining  St. 

58 


SAINT  XAVIER'S— CHICAGO 

Xavier's  on  the  south.  Bishop  Duggan  very  kindly  saw 
to  this. 

Property  difficulties  began  in  Rev.  Mother  Mary 
Agatha's  time  and  it  was  owing  to  this  that  she  pur- 
chased land  for  a  large  boarding  school.  It  had  to  be 
done  so  quietly,  it  was  necessary  to  have  some  friend 
of  the  Community  purchase  it  in  her  own  name  and 
and  transfer  it  later  to  the  Sisters.  Mrs.  Crowley,  a 
mother  of  one  of  the  Sisters,  was  selected  for  the  trans- 
action, and  she  paid  $600  for  the  ground  at  Calumet 
Avenue  and  Twenty-Sixth  Street.  Of  course,  she  had 
received  this  amount  from  the  Community,  and  later  she 
deeded  the  property  to  the  Sisters. 

Here  on  the  prairie,  in  a  suburb  known  as  Carville,  the 
new  Academy  arose  as  if  by  magic  in  1853 ;  people  won- 
dered at  the  size  and  ample  proportions,  not  knowing 
that  a  generous  contractor  had  offered  to  construct  the 
building  at  once  and  wait  for  compensation.  It  was  one 
of  the  best  in  the  city  at  that  time,  and  pupils  came  from 
far  and  near;  hence,  the  indebtedness  was  soon  a  thing 
of  the  past.  A  very  good  bell  was  placed  in  the  belfry, 
and  still  does  duty  for  the  present  Mercy  Hospital,  which 
succeeded  the  school — but  more  of  this  anon. 

On  Dec.  3,  1854,  the  building  was  ready  for  occupancy 
and  it  was  decided  to  name  it  St.  Agatha's  Academy,  in 
memory  of  the  beloved  Superior  who  had  been  stricken 
down  by  cholera  during  the  summer. 

In  1854  to  the  year  1863  this  boarding  school  was  in  a 
very  flourishing  condition.  Several  of  the  first  families 
of  the  vcity  sent  their  daughters  there  for  a  practical  and 
ornamental  education.  On  the  register  appeared  the 
names  of  pupils  from  Missouri,  Ohio,  Colorado,  Cali- 
fornia and  other  states. 

It  out-rivaled  the  older  St.  Xavier's  Academy  and 
everything  was  progressing  admirably  when,  in  1863, 
Bishop  Duggan  decided  on  offering  for  sale  the  old 
orphanage  and  hospital  property  on  Wabash  near  Van 

59 


SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

Buren  Street,  the  Sisters  not  having  been  allowed  to  hold 
the  deeds,  although  they  had  invested  all  they  could  save 
in  this  place.  In  two  days  a  purchaser  was  found  and 
he  required  immediate  possession.  The  Sisters  of  St. 
Joseph  came  from  St.  Louis  to  take  charge  and  they 
removed  the  orphans  to  the  new  building,  known  here- 
tofore as  the  University  of  St.  Mary's  of  the  Lake. 

Where  to  take  all  the  patients  in  the  old  hospital 
caused  the  Mercy  Sisters  much  anxiety.  It  was  finally 
decided  by  Rev.  Mother  Francis  to  send  all  St.  Agatha's 
boarders  from  Twenty-sixth  Street  to  St.  Xavier's  on 
Wabash  near  Madison  thus  making  room  in  the  former 
Academy  for  a  hospital.  And  so  it  came  about  that  the 
Mercy  Hospital  is  located  there,  at  first  facing  on  Calu- 
met, then  creeping  along  Twenty-sixth,  wing  after  wing, 
absorbing  the  Medical  College  on  Prairie,  and  finally  the 
young  ladies'  boarding  school  kept  by  Mrs.  Loring  on 
Prairie  Avenue  when  the  "Annex"  of  Mercy,  the  last  and 
finest  addition  was  erected  in  1908. 

St.  Agatha's  Revisited 

The  busy  day  was  over,  the  shades  of  night  drew  near, 
As  again  I  entered  those  old  walls,  haunted  by  memories 

dear; 
Around  me  were  familiar  scenes,  fraught  with  dreams  of 

days  gone  by ; 
Of  friends  I  missed  with  sad  regret,  whose  memory 

claimed  a  sigh; 
Still,  there  were  faces  of  old  time,  that  in  past  days  we 

knew. 
And  while  I  met  their  greetings  kind,  I  thought  of  you, 

dear  Lue. 

With  the  twilight  hour  again  we  sought  the  Chapel  as  of 

old. 
While  the  sweet  evening  Litany,  its  glorious  music  rolled. 

60 


The  Nrvv  St.  Agatha's  of  1889,  Evans  Ave. 


Oil)  St.  Agatha's  Academy,  Calumet  Ave. 


SAINT  XAVIER'S— CHICAGO 

Around  me  knelt  a  stranger  band,  with  here  and  there  a 

face 
That  we  had  met  so  oft  before,  at  that  same  hour  and 

place. 
As  the  low,  sweet  strain  fell  on  my  ear,  I  thought  of 

others  too. 
Who  had  knelt  before,  at  eventide,  with  you  and  me,  dear 

Lue. 

The  block-robed  nuns,  with  quiet  mein,  their  chant  to 

Heaven  upraise, 
The  altar  decked  with  offerings  fair,  just  as  in  other  days. 
On  wings  of  rapture  rise  our  souls,  and  in  far  heights 

expand, 
While  earth  grows  dim  and  fades  away,  in  visions  sweet 

and  grand. 
We  feel  that  in  the  upper  heights  creeds  vanish,  and  we 

claim 
Kindred  with  all  religions,  despite  discord  or  name. 

Delphine!  I  missed  her  at  that  hour,  and  Maggie,  she 

was  gone ; 
And  she,  the  fairest  of  our  band,  our  bright-eyed  Marian ; 
Hattie  and  Julia,  Clara,  all,  whose  names  are  twined 

among 
The  memories  of  that  mystic  time  when  you  and  I  were 

young. 
While  the  vibrant  chords  were  swept  along,  there  came 

the  thought  of  you. 
And  at  the  evening  Litany,  my  heart  turned  to  you,  dear 

Lue. 

We  gathered  round  the  frugal  board  in  the  long  "Re- 
fectory" spread. 

And  then  in  the  "Recreation  Room"  two  hours  of  frolic 
sped; 

61 


SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

And  when  we  later  marched  along  in  unbroken  rank  and 

file, 
Each  to  the  "Dormitory,"  where  sleep  the  night  hours 

beguile, 
The  gentle  Sister,  then  in  charge,  a  benediction  gave, 
'Till  the  morning  sun  broke  o'er  the  lake,  to  gild  each 

rising  wave. 

Again  the  "Study  Room"  I  sought,  the  seat  where,  side 
by  side. 

The  minstrel  art  you  loved  so  well,  we  there  together 
tried. 

Our  school-girl  fancies  then  we  twined  in  the  lovely  even- 
ing hour; 

0,  feel  you  still  the  joyous  thrill  of  the  minstrel's  magic 
power? 

Out  in  the  playground  then  I  sought  each  haunt  of  old 
we  knew, 

In  proud  St.  Agatha's  narrow  "Court"  came  memories 
of  you. 

Yes,  I  have  seen  again  the  one  so  dear  in  times  gone  by — 
Sat  by  her  side  as  in  old  time,  and  met  her  gentle  eye. 
The  Sister  that  we  loved  so  well  her  hand  in  mine  has 

lain; 
Her  low,  sweet  voice  we  loved  to  hear  I  have  listened  to 

again. 
(Through  all  the  years  it  comes  to  me,  none  loved  more 

fond  and  true.) 
I  rested  by  her  side  again,  and  we  spoke  of  you,  dear  Lou. 
— Sarah  Dudley  P.  Jones,  Class  of  '56. 
Sycamore,  DeKalb  Co.,  111. 


A  Jesuit  had  been  appointed  in  1849,  to  fill  the  vacant 
See  of  Chicago.  Rt.  Rev.  James  Oliver  Van  de  Velde 
was  installed,  and  he  was  certainly  very  kind  to  the  re- 
ligious, always  insisting  that  they  should  not  call  him 


62 


SAINT  XAVIER'S— CHICAGO 

bishop,  but  father.  The  duties  of  the  episcopacy  were 
not  congenial  and  his  administration  was  a  troubled  one, 
so  much  so,  that  at  his  own  request  he  was  transferred 
to  Natchez  in  1853.  He  had  never  severed  his  connection 
with  the  Jesuits,  and  as  there  was  a  house  of  the  Society 
in  that  city,  he  could  always  have  one  or  another  of  its 
members  to  dwell  with  him.  In  1855,  meeting  with  an 
accident,  a  broken  limb,  from  which  he  saw  he  could  not 
recover,  he  requested  his  remains  would  be  brought  to 
the  Jesuit  Cemetery  in  Florissant,  Mo. 

After  Bishop  Van  de  Velde's  departure  in  1853  the 
Archbishop  of  St.  Louis  appointed  Rev.  James  Duggan 
to  the  administration  of  the  Chicago  diocese. 

July  25,  1854,  Rev.  Anthony  O'Regan  was  consecrated 
in  St.  Louis  and  soon  after  arrived  in  Chicago.  Rev. 
James  Duggan  then  returned  to  St.  Louis  where  he  was 
afterwards  named  Coadjutor  of  Abp.  Kenrick  and  con- 
secrated May  3,  1857. 

Bishop  O'Regan,  finding  the  climate  of  the  lake  city 
rather  severe  and  Chicago  ecclesiastical  affairs  not  to  his 
liking,  resigned  the  thorny  mitre  after  about  five  years 
and  went  to  Brompton,  England,  where  he  led  a  retired 
life  until  he  was  called  to  his  eternal  rest  in  1866.  His 
remains  are  entombed  in  Tuam,  his  native  place. 

During  the  interregnum  after  Bishop  O'Regan  had  re- 
signed and  gone  to  Europe,  Bishop  Smith  of  Dubuque 
was  Administrator  and  whenever  he  visited  Chicago  offi- 
cially, he  always  called  at  St.  Xavier's  and  was  sincerely 
admired  by  the  Community. 

On  one  occasion  he  made  a  proposition  to  Rev.  Mother 
Francis  regarding  an  institution  in  Dubuque  in  which  he 
showed  great  interest.  The  Sisters  of  Charity  B.V.M., 
founded  by  Rev.  T.  J.  Donahoe  of  St.  Michael's  Church, 
Philadelphia,  and  Mother  Mary  Clarke,  Dublin,  Ireland, 
were  in  the  first  stage  of  existence  as  a  religious  body. 
No  formal  rule  had  been  adopted — no  confirmation  had 
been  received  from  Rome. 

63 


SISTERS  OF  MEECY 

Bishop  Smith,  who  had  been  a  Trappist  monk,  was  a 
strict  disciplinarian,  and  he  felt  inclined  to  introduce 
more  formal  conventualism  among  the  Sisters  of  his  dio- 
cese. He  knew  the  Order  of  Mercy  had  been  confirmed, 
so  he  requested  Rev.  Mother  Francis  to  send  some  mem- 
bers to  exemplify  the  life  of  a  confirmed  order  to  the 
Sisterhood  in  Dubuque.  "O  Bishop!  how  could  I  do 
that?"  she  exclaimed,  humility  and  justice  causing  her  to 
shrink  from  the  proposal.  "There  are  exemplary  women 
in  that  congregation,  which  is  not  yet  matured.  The 
Foundress  is  noted  for  her  wisdom  and  sanctity.  Wait 
awhile  and  they  will  adopt  a  rule  suited  to  their  work." 

Disappointed,  the  holy  Bishop  returned  to  Dubuque 
and  never  came  back  to  Chicago.  He  departed  to  the 
great  beyond  in  1865,  and  Mother  Mary  Francis'  predic- 
tion was  fulfilled  to  the  letter  regarding  the  good  Sis- 
ters of  Charity,  which  is  now  a  flourishing  order  spread- 
ing rapidly  and  doing  good  everywhere. 

Rt.  Rev.  James  Duggan  was  translated  to  the  vacant 
See  of  Chicago  Jan.  2,  1859.  A  favorable  epoch  seemed 
to  have  opened  for  the  diocese  in  this  new  appointment. 

Bishop  Duggan  was  noted  for  his  gentleness  of  char- 
acter. He  was  a  very  eloquent  orator  and  people  went 
in  crowds  wherever  they  knew  he  was  to  speak.  One 
pious  old  lady  called  him  "The  Angel  of  the  pulpit."  He 
had  a  fine  English  education  and  was  also  acquainted 
with  several  foreign  languages. 

Both  priests  and  people  were  delighted  with  the  new 
Bishop,  especially  when  the  fruits  of  his  fatherly  interest 
were  seen  on  all  sides. 

After  a  few  years  his  naturally  delicate  constitution 
showed  a  need  of  change  and  he  went  to  Europe;  com- 
ing back  after  a  time  he  did  not  show  the  improvement 
expected,  so  now  and  then  he  was  obliged  to  leave  his 
diocese  and  seek  for  health  in  fairer  climes.  This  left 
matters  at  home  in  abeyance,  and  soon  disorders  crept  in, 
which  he  found  impossible  to  remedy  after  his  last  trip. 

64 


SAINT  XAVIER'S— CHICAGO 

Added  to  this  his  nervous  system  was  becoming  gradually 
weaker.  It  was  then  he  asked  his  Metropolitan,  Abp. 
Kendrick  of  St.  Louis,  to  accept  his  resignation,  telling 
him  that  he  felt  his  brain  was  weakening ;  the  Archbishop 
would  not  listen  and  said  there  was  no  danger  of  that. 

Long  before  this  the  Sisters  noticed  that  the  dear,  good 
Bishop  was  failing  mentally,  but  kept  it  from  the  pub- 
lic until  it  became  evident  to  all.  He  had  been  a  great 
student  of  French  literature  and  Mother  Mary  Gene- 
vieve and  Sister  Mary  Jane  Duggan,  his  own  sister,  spent 
hours  every  day  for  months,  reading  to  him,  and  for  the 
last  six  weeks  did  not  leave  him  night  or  day.  Not  one 
moment  could  he  sleep  so  it  was  not  surprising  that  the 
brilliant  intellect  became  clouded. 

Then  it  was,  in  1869,  that  he  was  sent  to  the  Sisters 
of  Charity's  Institution  in  St.  Louis,  where  he  lingered 
until  the  year  nineteen  hundred.  The  remains  were 
brought  to  Chicago  and  deposited  by  the  request  of  his 
sister,  Mrs.  Flannigan,  in  her  lot  in  Calvary,  where  a 
beautiful  monument  was  erected  by  Archbishop  Feehan. 
His  devoted  sister,  Sister  Mary  Jane  Duggan  was  laid 
beside  him  January  16,  1907. 

Thou  Knowest  Best 

Although  the  path  of  life  be  long  and  rough, 

And  there  are  thorns  where  roses  might  have  been — 

Although  the  shadows  gathering  overhead 

Make  shade  and  darkness  on  the  soul  within — 

Even  though  I  be  tempted  from  the  way 

Of  righteousness,  yet  I  will  ever  say. 

Thou  knowest  best. 

Although  the  war  of  spirit  and  of  flesh 
Rage  fiercely,  and  I  shrink  from  the  affray 
In  dread  and  fear — although  the  pleasant  paths 
That  are  not  for  my  feet  to  tread  be  gay 

65 


SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

And  bright,  with  soft  allurements  tempting  me 
To  leave  the  conflict,  still  my  prayer  shall  be. 
Thou  knowest  best. 

Mine  eyes  are  blinded  by  the  light  of  earth ; 

I  grope  in  darkness,  and  I  cannot  rend 

The  veil  that  wraps  me  round,  that  shuts  from  me 

The  mysteries  I  cannot  comprehend. 

The  things  that  move  Thy  will  are  hid  from  me, 

0,  Lord,  but  all  is  plain  unto  Thee — 

Thou  knowest  best. 

— Alice  E.  Shannon,  '93. 


CHAPTER  SIX 

The  Civil  War — five  Sisters  go  to  the  front. 
Rev.  Mother  Mary  Francis  goes  with  them. 
On  her  return  she  sends  more  Sisters  and 
nurses.  She  is  succeeded  by  Mother  Mary 
Scholastica. 


CHAPTER  SIX 

At  the  beginning  of  the  Civil  War,  Colonel  Mulligan, 
who  had  organized  the  Irish  Brigade,  requested  the  Sis- 
ters to  act  in  the  capacity  of  nurses,  when  he  would  call  on 
them  for  this  purpose.  The  summons  came,  and  Mother 
Mary  Francis  with  Mother  Mary  Borromeo,  her  assist- 
ant, accompanied  five  Sisters  and  several  nurses  to  the 
South.  Not  being  able  to  reach  Lexington,  they  were 
placed  in  charge  of  the  Jefferson  City  Hospital,  which 
soon  became  overcrowded  with  the  sick,  wounded  and 
dying.  At  length  a  Seminary  was  used  for  the  overflow, 
and  two  more  Sisters  with  nurses  were  sent  from  Chi- 
cago to  aid  in  the  laborious  work. 

When  they  had  straightened  things  out  pretty  well 
here,  they  were  placed  in  charge  of  the  hospital  depart- 
ment on  the  steamboat  "Empress,"  about  to  start  for 
Shiloh,  in  order  to  transfer  the  sick  and  wounded  to 
places  in  which  they  could  receive  better  care. 

Many  of  the  poor  soldiers  were  still  on  the  battle-field 
in  tents  deprived  of  every  comfort,  while  suffering  from 
wounds  of  every  description. 

When  they  reached  Pittsburg  Landing  they  were  sur- 
prised to  find  it  consisted  of  only  a  house,  a  log  cabin, 
in  which  there  was  no  prospect  of  hearing  Mass,  although 
it  was  Palm-Sunday.  Going  ashore  at  once,  they  visited 
the  sick  and  wounded  of  both  armies,  distributing  the  re- 
freshments which  they  had  brought,  to  the  great  relief 
of  the  poor  men,  many  of  whom  were  dying.  Next  day 
the  Empress  with  its  burden  of  over  three  hundred  suf- 
ferers started  for  Keokuk,  Iowa,  and  the  Sisters  were 
occupied  from  early  mom  till  midnight  soothing  them 
and  supplying  their  many  needs. 

69 


SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

Reaching  their  destination  on  Holy  Saturday,  April  16, 
1862,  the  removal  to  the  hospital  began  at  once  and  occu- 
pied two  days.  On  Easter  Sunday  the  Sisters  had  the 
great  happiness  of  hearing  Mass  and  receiving  Holy  Com- 
munion. The  Sisters  of  Notre  Dame,  being  present, 
awaited  the  Sisters  of  Mercy  at  the  church-door,  and 
knowing  they  were  fasting,  invited  them  to  come  to  their 
convent  for  breakfast.  Much  as  the  Sisters  appreciated 
their  kindness,  they  were  obliged  to  decline,  as  they  had 
to  return  as  soon  as  possible  to  their  sick  on  the  hospital 
boat.  In  the  evening  the  Visitation  Nuns  sent  a  messen- 
ger to  invite  the  Sisters  to  dine  at  their  convent,  and  this 
was  accepted.  At  Mound  City  the  Holy  Cross  Sisters 
showed  much  kindness  to  them. 

Next  day  the  "Empress"  returned  to  Pittsburgh  Land- 
ing for  another  cargo  of  suffering  humanity,  which  was 
brought  to  St.  Louis.  Many  voyages  of  this  kind  were 
made,  the  Sisters  striving  to  procure  delicacies  for  the 
sick  wherever  they  landed.  In  the  distribution  of  these 
there  were  scenes  both  touching  and  amusing.  Those 
who  were  able  would  gather  around  the  Sisters  like  chil- 
dren, holding  out  their  piece  of  bread  and  begging  for 
"another  little  bit  of  jam." 

The  "Empress"  also  made  a  voyage  to  Louisville,  where 
they  placed  under  proper  care,  the  last  cargo  of  sick  and 
wounded  from  the  bloody  battle  of  Shiloh. 

Finally  the  time  came  for  disbanding  of  troops  and  the 
Sisters  returned  home  worn  out  from  incessant  toil,  from 
which  some  of  them  never  rallied.  But  it  was  always 
a  consolation  to  them  to  recall  the  many  poor  souls  whom 
they  had  helped  on  the  journey  into  eternity,  many  of 
whom  received  Baptism  before  closing  their  eyes  to  the 
things  of  this  world.  The  kindness  and  reverential  cour- 
tesy from  the  soldiers  and  officers  alike  filled  them  with 
gratitude.  They  had  feared  the  task  imposed  on  them, 
but  their  anticipations  were  not  realized.  The  soldiers 
under  their  care  showed  them  child-like  docility  and  re- 

70 


SAINT  XAVIER'S— CHICAGO 

spect,  and  never  was  there  a  word  uttered  that  could 
offend  the  most  delicate  ear. 

Many  pleasant  occurrences  took  place  in  war  times,  the 
recital  of  which  served  to  enliven  the  convent  recreations 
for  years  after.  One  of  the  band  who  had  been  on  "the 
war-path"  lived  until  September,  1915;  almost  oblivious 
to  every  other  subject.  Sister  Mary  Elzear  always  bright- 
ened up  when  asked  if  she  remembered  the  war,  especially 
did  she  smile  when  she  heard  General  Freemont's  name, 
and  exclaimed,  "He  was  a  perfect  gentleman." 

The  latter  part  of  1864  was  an  eventful  time  in  Chi- 
cago. Companies  of  Federal  troops  with  squads  of  Con- 
federate prisoners  often  passed  the  convent  en  route  to 
Camp  Douglas,  situated  in  a  southern  suburb  of  the  city. 
This  Camp  was  in  charge  of  Colonel  Sweet,  of  Wisconsin, 
and  it  was  said  the  poor  southern  prisoners  might  be 
more  humanely  treated;  it  was  also  said  that  there  was 
a  great  dearth  of  food  in  the  Camp.  The  undercurrent 
of  feeling  in  the  city  was  strong;  an  indignation  meet- 
ing was  held,  and  a  committee  of  investigation  was 
appointed.  When  it  appeared  before  Colonel  Sweet  he 
refused  them  admission.  Then  these  humane  gentlemen 
called  on  Mother  Mary  Francis,  and  asked  her  to  visit 
the  Camp  so  that  its  needs  might  be  supplied.  Of  course 
she  consented,  and  with  a  companion,  she  undertook  this 
duty  herself.  The  sentry  refused  admittance.  She  then 
drove  to  the  mayor's  office.  He  courteously  received 
them  and  gave  them  a  note  to  Col.  Sweet,  telling  him  it 
would  silence  unfavorable  reports  if  he  admitted  the  two 
Sisters  to  the  Camp.  They  drove  back  to  the  latter  place 
and  sent  the  note  to  the  Colonel  who  allowed  them  to 
visit  the  prisoners. 

They  found  many  of  them  sick  and  in  a  deplorable  con- 
dition. Mother  Mary  Francis  calling  his  attention  to  it, 
the  Colonel  said,  "Sisters,  I  frankly  acknowledge  that  the 
constant  additions  to  the  numbers  have  reduced  our  com- 
missariat to  a  minimum,  a  fact  which  has  been  injudi- 

71 


SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

ciously  commented  on  by  the  people  of  Chicago.  Not 
being  a  miracle-worker  I  have  to  make  the  best  of  circum- 
stances." 

He  allowed  the  distribution  of  a  small  supply  which 
the  Sisters  had  brought  saying,  "With  pleasure  you  have 
entire  liberty  to  fulfill  your  mission  of  charity  during  the 
next  two  hours,  at  the  end  of  that  time  you  will  please 
consider  the  visit  closed."  Mother  Mary  Francis  then  re- 
quested the  Colonel  to  allow  a  priest  to  visit  the  sick 
Catholics  and  he  consented. 

THE  OLD  SOLDIER'S  STORY 

He  was  a  soldier  old  and  gray;  he'd  been  on  fields  of 

glory; 
We  children  gathered  round  one  day,  and  asked  him  for 

a  "story." 
"A  story  of  the  war,"  said  we,  some  deed  both  great  and 

glorious." 
Said  he,  "I'll  tell  of  victory,  where  woman  was  victorious. 
Methinks    (he  gravely  shook  his  head)    no  heart  that 

warms  a  true  man 
Can  calmly  beat  when  words  are  said  ungraciously  of 

woman. 

"And  yet,  from  infancy,  I  knew  no  mother's  sweet  caress- 
ing, 

A  lone  and  luckless  lad  I  grew,  uncheered  by  homestead 
blessing. 

But  little  recked  I  even  then  for  love  nor  virtue  caring, 

I  lived  with  rude  and  lawless  men,  their  sinful  pastimes 
sharing, 

And  thus  for  years,  till  o'er  the  land  the  storm  of  battles 
lowered, 

'Twas  then  I  joined  the  warrior  band,  and  fell  where  bul- 
lets showered. 

72 


SAINT  XAVIER'S— CHICAGO 

"And  when  I  woke  to  life  and  pain,  a  woman's  form  was 

near  me, 
A  woman's  hand  and  voice  were  then  upraised  to  soothe 

and  cheer  me. 
That  gentle  hand  seemed  dropping  balm  my  shattered 

body  healing, 
That  voice  had  words  my  soul  to  calm,  faith,  hope,  and 

love  revealing. 
She  was  not  young,  nor  was  her  face  with  winsome 

beauty  beaming. 
But  ah!  a  flood  of  wondrous  grace  was  all  around  her 

streaming. 

"I  asked  her  what  her  name  might  be,  as  blundering  I 
addressed  her; 

She,  smiling  my  surprise  to  see,  said  gently,  'Call  me 
"Sister." ' 

I  marveled  at  the  strange,  sweet  name  (and  was  I,  then, 
her  brother?) 

But  soon  I  found  that  all  who  came  ne'er  called  her  by 
another. 

She  saved  my  life,  her  skillful  care  with  ghastly  death 
contending ; 

She  saved  my  soul  by  fervent  prayer,  and  gentlest  repre- 
hending. 

"When  I  arose,  with  health  endowed,  to  go  where  honor 

brought  me, 
I  knelt,  and  to  my  God  I  vowed  to  live  as  she  had  taught 

me. 
And  that  most  solemn,  sacred  vow,  each  day  of  life  re- 
newing, 
I've  kept  with  grace,  from  then  till  now,  and  this  has 
!  been  her  doing." 

j    He  paused,  my  gentle  Sister  May  (No  seraph  could  be 
t  sweeter) 

Said  timidly,  "And  since  then,  pray.  Sir,  did  you  never 
j  meet  her?" 

I  73 


SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

Athwart  the  old  man's  silvered  head  a  ray  of  light  came 
stealing ; 

He  looked  to  Heaven,  and  then  he  said  with  sad  and  ten- 
der feeling, 

"A  month  had  passed  when  I  returned;  I  looked  for  her 
and  missed  her; 

I  wept  with  those  from  whom  I  learned  that  death  had 
struck  the  Sister. 

And  yet,  'twas  well,  her  work  was  done,  'twas  time  for 
Heaven  to  win  her; 

The  angels  surely  longed  for  one  who  saved  so  foul  a 
sinner." 

Then  spoke  sweet  May,  the  story  gave  her  heart's  deep 
fountains  stirring: 

"Mine  be  the  task  to  serve  and  save  the  suffering  and  the 
erring." 

"And  so  'twill  be,"  he  said,  and  smiled,  prophetic  utter- 
ance giving; 

He's  now  at  rest,  and  May,  dear  child,  sweet  Mercy's  life 
is  living. 

—A  Pupil  of  1859. 

Colonel  Sweet's  daughter  had  been  placed  in  St. 
Xavier's  previous  to  the  war.  She  was  a  lovely,  gifted 
girl,  who  truly  appreciated  every  attention  she  received 
from  her  teachers,  and  whenever  she  had  an  opportunity 
in  after  years,  showed  by  many  little  acts  of  kindness, 
a  loving  remembrance  of  the  Academy  and  its  inmates. 

Three  of  the  best  Pension  Agents  Chicago  ever  had 
were  former  pupils  of  St.  Xavier's  viz. :  Mrs.  James  Mul- 
ligan, widow  of  the  brave  Col.  Mulligan,  Mrs.  Parsons, 
daughter  of  Col.  Kinzie,  and  Miss  Ada  Sweet,  daughter  of 
Col.  Sweet,  who  often  sent  the  band  of  his  regiment  to 
serenade  the  pupils  of  the  Academy,  while  his  daughter 
was  an  inmate. 

On  the  occasion  of  the  last  serenade,  just  as  the  melody 

74 


SAINT  XAVIER'S— CHICAGO 

died  away,  a  serious  accident  occurred  in  the  neighbor- 
hood. An  unfinished  five-story  brick  building  on  State 
Street,  in  the  rear  of  the  convent,  fell  with  a  tremendous 
crash.  The  smaller  houses  on  either  side  were  leveled 
with  the  ground.  Five  persons,  among  them  a  young 
mother  and  her  babe  were  killed.  Several  others  were 
injured  and  the  Sisters  gave  them  special  attention  in 
various  ways. 

When  Mother  Mary  Francis  had  governed  the  Com- 
munity very  efficiently  for  nine  years,  she  was  succeeded 
in  1867  by  Mother  Mary  Scholastica  Drum,  who  was 
appointed  to  the  office  of  Superior  by  the  Vicar  General, 
Very  Rev.  Denis  Dunne,  in  the  absence  of  Bishop  Duggan. 
Mother  Mary  Francis  by  her  careful  management  of  tem- 
poralities had  left  sufficient  funds  to  pay  off  the  mort- 
gage when  it  would  expire.  In  a  short  time  it  was  found 
necessary  to  enlarge  the  Hospital,  and  for  that  purpose 
a  new  loan  was  made  by  giving  another  mortgage  in  1869. 
And  it  seemed  it  was  by  a  special  providence  that  two 
deep  wings  were  built,  besides  a  new  frontage  of  one 
hundred  and  fifty  feet,  on  Calumet  Avenue,  for  when  the 
fire  carried  off  the  Convent  and  Academy  the  Sisters 
and  pupils  were  glad  to  go  to  the  Hospital,  some  three 
miles  south,  many  of  them  walking  the  whole  distance. 
What  was  known  in  the  late  fifties  as  the  "Farm"  came 
into  possession  of  the  Sisters  early  in  1859.  It  consisted 
of  fifty  acres  of  prairie  land,  extending  from  what  is  now 
Forty-eighth  Street  to  Fiftieth  and  from  Evans  Avenue 
on  the  east  to  Vincennes  Avenue  on  the  west.  It  cost 
the  Sisters  eight  thousand  dollars — now  it  is  worth  mil- 
lions; but  all  of  it  has  passed  from  the  Community  as 
will  be  explained  later,  excepting  five  acres  on  which  the 
present  St.  Xavier's  was  erected. 

Rev.  Mother  Mary  Scholastica  soon  began  to  send  out 
Sisters  on  new  foundations. 

DeWitt  was  the  first  place  in  Iowa  to  harbor  the  Sisters 
of  Mercy.    At  the  request  of  its  only  pastor,  1867,  Rev. 

75 


SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

Mother  Scholastica  accompanied  five  Sisters  and  left  them 
in  a  cottage,  which  had  nothing  to  recommend  it  so  much 
as  its  facihties  in  procuring  rain  water  for  its  occupants, 
without  the  necessity  of  stepping  outside  for  it.  Even 
the  snow  could  find  them  out  without  any  exertion.  Yet 
De  Witt  may  be  called  the  Bethlehem  of  the  Order  in 
Iowa.  Many  are  the  off-shoots  from  this  parent  stem, 
and  the  grandparent  in  Chicago  has  every  reason  to  be 
proud  of  the  numerous  progeny  which  had  sprung  from 
so  poverty-stricken  a  beginning.  How  truly  such  inci- 
dents prove  the  providence  of  God  in  caring  for  those 
who  strive  to  serve  Him,  and  show  that  the  designs  of 
creatures  cannot  forestall  the  all  embracing  love  of  the 
Creator. 

Mother  Borromeo  Johnson,  who  had  been  Mother  Fran- 
cis' Assistant,  was  appointed  Superior  of  this  poor  little 
mission,  and  she  succeeded  so  well  in  remodeling  and 
making  habitable  the  shell  of  a  building  that  it  was  soon 
filled  with  pupils.  In  two  years  the  pastor  of  Independ- 
ence, Iowa,  requested  her  to  send  him  a  few  Sisters,  but 
the  people  of  Davenport  did  not  want  to  be  behind  the 
smaller  towns  of  their  state  and  Bishop  Hennessy  was 
appealed  to  for  a  colony  of  Sisters  of  Mercy.  On  hear- 
ing this,  Reverend  Mother  Borromeo  came  to  Chicago  in 
order  to  get  more  Sisters  and  if  possible  to  persuade 
Mother  Mary  Francis  to  join  her  in  her  arduous  work. 
Bishop  Duggan  very  reluctantly  consented  to  the  depar- 
ture of  one  who  had  so  firmly  established  the  schools  in 
Chicago,  and  Mother  Mary  Francis,  who  loved  every  one 
and  every  brick  in  the  Mother  House  which  she  had  built, 
was  not  easily  persuaded  to  leave  her  old  friends.  How- 
ever, good  Mother  Borromeo  finally  succeeded  in  getting 
her  consent,  as  well  as  that  of  Reverend  Mother  Scholas- 
tica, and  she  was  placed  at  the  head  of  the  house  in  In- 
dependence as  a  branch  from  Davenport,  which  became 
the  Mother  House.  At  that  time,  1868,  there  were  only 
nine  professed  Sisters  in  Iowa,  all  from  Chicago.    In  1894 

76 


SAINT  XAVIER'S— CHICAGO 

there  were  Convents  not  only  in  DeWitt,  Independence, 
and  Davenport,  but  also  in  Dubuque,  Cedar  Rapids,  Iowa 
City,  Decorah,  Grand  Junction,  Manchester,  Marion,  Dun- 
lap,  Clinton  and  Sioux  City. 

Rev.  Mother  Borromeo  was  one  of  those  beautiful  souls 
beloved  by  God  and  man.  It  was  of  her  that  Mrs.  Alex 
Sullivan  wrote,  "How  beautiful  a  nun's  life  must  be.  I 
met  today  in  St.  Xavier's  Academy  a  Sister  of  Mercy 
whose  face  I  shall  not  easily  forget,  white  as  a  statuary 
angel's,  placid,  as  one  not  swayed  by  human  passions,  the 
sanctity  of  God  enveloped  her  like  a  garment."  But  those 
that  God  loves  He  chastens ;  after  seven  years  of  arduous 
work  she  succumbed  to  cancer  for  which  an  operation 
did  her  no  good.  Mother  Mary  Baptist  Martin  replaced 
her  for  two  terms,  and  she  was  instrumental  in  promoting 
the  good  work  throughout  the  State.  Mother  Francis 
was  then  called  upon  to  assume  the  burden  of  this  re- 
sponsible office.  She  firmly  declined,  declaring  her  inca- 
pacity on  account  of  failing  health  and  declining  years, 
but  Bishop  McMullen  named  her  Superior  after  the  elec- 
tion and  gave  her  no  further  opportunity  to  remonstrate. 

We  will  not  enter  into  particulars  here  concerning  the 
many  improvements  made  by  good  Mother  Francis  as  her 
life  has  been  written  by  Mother  M.  Isidore  O'Connor,  who 
went  with  her  from  Chicago,  and  afterwards  was  sent  as 
Superior  to  the  House  opened  in  Iowa  City.  We  will  sim- 
ply add  that  after  two  terms  of  government  in  Davenport 
Mother  Mary  Francis  yielded  up  her  position  to  her 
Assistant,  Mother  Mary  Baptist,  and  about  one  year 
afterwards  the  dear  old  Mother's  heart  began  to  give  out 
and  the  Sisters  saw  they  were  going  to  lose  her.  On 
Dec.  8,  1888,  in  her  seventy-seventh  year  Mother  Mary 
Francis  went  to  join  the  Community  in  Heaven.  We 
append  some  stanzas  written  on  her  departure  by  a  Sis- 
ter of  Mercy  in  Ottawa,  111.,  who  knew  her  well  in  Chi- 
cago— Sister  Mary  Gabriel  Byrne,  who  has  since  gone 
to  her  resting  place  "close  to  the  throne." 

77 


sisters  of  mercy 

Mother  M.  Francis  de  Sales 

Died  Dec.  8,  1888,  Davenport,  Iowa 

Linger  awhile  by  this  lowly  green  mound, 
Softly,  tread  softly,  'tis  thrice  hallowed  ground ; 
Here,  on  the  slope  of  the  grassy  hill  side, 
Lieth  the  dust  of  the  Lamb's  virgin  bride ; 
Whisper  a  prayer  for  her  spirit's  repose; 
Sweet  be  her  rest  in  the  aiTns  of  her  Spouse, 
Blissful,  unbroken,  unspeakable  blest, 
Such  be  her  rapture,  and  such  be  her  rest. 

Rest  thee,  sweet  spirit,  thy  labors  are  o'er. 

Sorrow  and  pain  shall  approach  thee  no  more; 

Called  by  thy  Bridgroom  to  mansions  above. 

Ever  to  live  in  the  light  of  His  love. 

Ever  to  gaze  on  His  beautiful  Face, 

Clasped  to  His  Heart  in  His  fondest  embrace. 

Singing  the  song  which  the  virgins  intone 

Jesus  hath  claimed  thee,  hath  crowned  thee.  His  own. 

Why  should  we  weep  by  the  green  hill-side  grave? 
What  doth  it  hold  but  the  dust  which  earth  gave? 
Child  of  Elysium,  immortal  and  bright, 
Homeward,  our  Sister  hath  taken  her  flight. 
Homeward,  on  high  to  the  land  of  her  birth. 
Far  from  the  darkness  and  dangers  of  earth. 
Sister  of  angels,  she  reigns  evermore. 
Spouse  of  the  King  whom  the  angels  adore. 

Yes  and  the  form  which  now  molders  away, 
Mingling  its  dust  with  the  poor  parent  clay. 
Shall  it  not  rise  all  in  glory  arrayed. 
Clothed  with  the  beauty  which  never  shall  fade. 
Bright  with  the  lustre  out-shining  the  sun. 
Decked  with  the  graces  a  seraph  might  own  ? 
Germ  of  the  life  which  forever  shall  bloom ; 
Tears  of  the  earth  would  dishonor  thy  tomb. 

78 


SAINT  XAVIER'S— CHICAGO 

Yet  we  must  weep,  and  the  tears  that  we  shed, 

Tenderly  fall  as  we  bend  o'er  the  dead ; 

Sadly,  yet  soothing  each  bright  drop  that  starts, 

Tells  of  the  yearning  of  fond  weary  hearts. 

Hearts  that  are  homesick,  that  lovingly  sigh. 

Longing,  Sweet  Lord,  to  Thy  Bosom  to  fly ; 

Speak  Thou  the  word  which  our  souls  shall  release, 

Bring  us  to  rest  in  Thy  light  and  Thy  peace. 

Jesus,  O  Jesus,  our  love  and  our  All, 
Weary  and  wistful,  we  wait  for  the  call ; 
Hear  us,  and  answer  our  heart's  lonely  cry ; 
Leave  us  not  long  in  our  exile  to  lie ; 
Give  us  a  resting  place  close  to  Thy  throne; 
Are  we  not  Thine,  and  art  Thou  not  our  own? 
Light  of  our  lives,  and  our  hearts'  only  Love, 
Soon  may  we  see  Thee  in  glory  above. 

Another  mission  was  sent  by  Rev.  Mother  Scholastica 
in  1869  to  Harrisburg,  Pennsylvania.  Bishop  Shanna- 
han,  who  had  two  aunts  in  the  Chicago  Community  asked 
for  a  colony  and  five  Sisters  were  sent  from  this  House 
in  Pennsylvania.  Seven  branches  or  parochial  schools, 
with  one  orphanage  are  reported  as  doing  good  work. 

But  1871  saw  the  great  fire  in  Chicago  which  spread 
death  and  desolation  in  its  wake.  It  is  a  matter  of  his- 
tory so  it  need  not  be  described  in  these  pages.  One  fact 
however,  is  worthy  of  note.  Only  a  few  days  before  the 
memorable  ninth  of  October,  a  purchaser  had  been  found 
for  the  Academy  and  grounds  on  Wabash  and  Madison, 
which  were  being  almost  crowded  out  by  stores  and 
hotels,  so  that  it  was  no  longer  a  desirable  location  for 
a  Convent  and  boarding  school.  Papers  were  all  drawn 
up  and  ready  for  signature  on  Saturday,  but  at  the  last 
moment,  this  was  deferred  by  the  buyer  until  Monday 
morning.  By  that  day  the  fire  had  wiped  it  all  out,  and 
the  Sisters  were  well-nigh  homeless.    The  Hospital  was 

79 


SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

being  filled  to  repletion  by  victims  of  the  fire,  but  the 
Sisters  crowded  in  and  remained  there  until  they  rented 
a  building  on  Cottage  Grove  Avenue,  near  the  Douglas 
University.  Here  they  brought  the  boarders  whose 
homes  were  out  of  the  city,  and  commenced  class-work 
as  soon  as  possible. 

A  site  was  then  bought  at  a  cost  of  $75,000  on  the  cor- 
ner of  Twenty-ninth  Street  and  Wabash  Avenue  and  an- 
other Academy  was  erected.  Many  thought  it  would 
have  been  more  economical  to  build  at  Forty-ninth  Street, 
on  which  the  farm  was  located  but  the  Mother  Superior 
thought  it  would  be  impossible  to  have  a  clergyman  from 
any  of  the  churches  attend  there  for  daily  Mass;  fur- 
thermore, it  would  be  too  distant  for  the  large  number  of 
day  pupils  always  attending  school. 

A  very  wise  provision  was  made  in  1867  for  the  trans- 
ferring to  the  new  cemetery  of  the  remains  of  the  beloved 
Reverend  Mother  Mary  Agatha,  Reverend  Mother  Mary 
Paula  and  seventeen  others  who  were  in  the  old  burying 
ground,  which  was  being  changed  into  the  famous  Lin- 
coln Park.  A  beautiful  marble  cross  was  erected  at  the 
head  of  the  grave  in  which  their  remains  were  all  placed, 
and  their  names  were  recorded  on  it. 

Chicago  was  blessed  by  the  appointment  of  Right 
Reverend  Thomas  Foley  to  administer  during  the 
enforced  absence  of  Bishop  Duggan.  Arriving  here  in 
1870  the  Great  Fire  of  1871  swept  away  almost  every 
church  and  school.  Nothing  daunted  this  truly  zealous 
prelate.  He  encouraged  his  priests  and  people  to  begin 
anew  the  work  of  the  Master,  hence  churches  sprang  up, 
schools  were  built  and  new  parishes  organized. 

The  first  school  the  Bishop  visited  after  coming  to 
Chicago  was  "The  St.  Xavier  Academy,"  and  he  always 
proved  himself  a  tender  father  and  a  faithful  friend  to 
the  Sisters  and  even  to  the  pupils,  sometimes  long  after 
they  had  left  the  school.  In  one  of  his  first  visits  he 
announced  his  intention  of  giving  a  gold  medal  at  the 

80 


SAINT  XAVIER'S— CHICAGO 

closing  exercises  to  the  best  reader,  as  he  thought  a  young 
lady  that  could  read  well,  would  be  instrumental  in  keep- 
ing her  brothers  at  home  evenings.  He  came  himself  and 
examined  them  for  this  purpose  every  time,  and  years 
after  on  meeting  Miss  Annie  Brady,  who  had  received 
one  of  his  medals,  he  said,  "I  remember  how  well  a  cer- 
tain little  lady  read  for  me  at  St.  Xavier's,"  showing 
the  interest  he  felt  in  such  matters. 

Whenever  the  kind  Bishop  had  noted  visitors  from 
Baltimore  or  other  cities,  he  always  brought  them  to  see 
St.  Xavier's  which  was  not  so  far  out  then,  being  at 
Twenty-ninth  and  Wabash.  On  one  occasion  he  met  a 
delegation  of  ten  Indian  Chiefs  en  route  to  Washington 
to  visit  the  Great  Chief  there  on  business.  He  asked 
the  interpreter  to  bring  them  with  him  to  St.  Xavier's 
and  he  very  willingly  complied.  The  children  were  all 
assembled  in  the  large  hall  to  meet  the  Bishop  whose 
jovial  laugh  they  could  always  hear  as  soon  as  he  entered 
the  house. 

Imagine  their  consternation  when  the  ten  Indians  in 
blankets,  moccasins  and  feathers  stepped  in  slowly  and 
haughtily  after  the  beloved  Bishop,  who  enjoyed  a  hearty 
laugh  at  the  expense  of  the  pupils. 

But  he  was  not  satisfied  until  he  called  on  some  of  the 
seniors  to  come  forward  and  actually  shake  hands  with 
the  dignified  Chiefs,  who  occasionally  gave  a  grunt  of 
appreciation. 

On  another  occasion  he  brought  the  illustrious  Card- 
inal Gibbons  to  the  Academy.  These  visits  were  always 
a  surprise,  so  there  was  nothing  formal  about  them,  and 
they  were  all  the  more  enjoyed. 

Bishop  Foley  was  only  two  months  in  Chicago  when 
he  was  called  upon  to  preside  at  a  Chapter  in  St.  Xavier's 
for  the  triennial  election  of  a  Superior.  He  reminded  the 
Sisters  he  was  a  perfect  stranger,  not  acquainted  with 
any  of  them,  so  he  hoped  they  would  be  sure  to  elect  one 
of  their  number,  and  not  leave  the  decision  to  him.    How- 

81 


SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

ever,  it  actually  devolved  on  him  and  he  appointed 
the  one  who  had  filled  the  office  for  the  three  years  pre- 
vious— Mother  Mary  Scholastica  Drum.  When  this  term 
expired  in  1873,  the  Bishop  came  again  and  the  Mistress 
of  Novices  —  Mother  Mary  Genevieve  —  was  elected 
Superior  and  Mother  Mary  Scholastica  took  her  vacant 
place  in  the  novitiate.  Mother  Mary  Camillus,  who  had 
filled  the  office  of  Bursar  during  the  two  previous  terms 
was  reappointed  and  Mother  Mary  Vincent  became  the 
Assistant. 


82 


CHAPTER  SEVEN 

Mother  M.  Genevieve  elected  Superior.  She 
governs  the  community  over  thirty  years.  A 
sketch  of  her  remarkable  career. 


CHAPTER  SEVEN 

Rev.  Mother  Genevieve  governed  the  Community  so 
long  and  so  successfully,  it  will  not  be  surprising  if  we 
enter  more  into  particulars  concerning  her  eventful  life. 

Born  in  Canada  Nov.  2,  1832,  Sophia  Granger  was  blest 
with  good,  pious  Catholic  parents,  David  Granger  and 
Elizabeth  Roy.  Even  as  a  little  one  she  was  remarkable 
for  her  implicit  obedience  and  solid  piety;  though  she 
was  always  cheerful  and  sociable  yet  her  manner  was 
naturally  serious.  When  scarcely  ten  years  of  age,  she 
was  permitted  by  her  pastor.  Rev.  C.  Larocque,  after- 
wards Bishop  of  St.  Hyacinth,  to  receive  her  First  Holy 
Communion.  Her  piety  and  unusual  intelligence  had  in- 
duced this  holy  man  to  grant  her  this  great  favor. 

Accompanying  her  as  a  close  little  friend  and  class- 
mate on  this  occasion,  was  Josephine  Lagasse,  and  Oct. 
1,  1841,  was  a  most  happy  day  for  them.  They  were 
confirmed  the  following  summer. 

A  very  pretty  description  was  given  of  these  days  of 
childhood  long  years  after  when  two  Sisters  happened  to 
stop  at  St.  Xavier's  in  1886  en  route  to  Montreal.  They 
were  Sisters  of  the  Holy  Names  going  to  the  Mother 
House,  to  assist  at  the  election  of  a  Mother  General,  and 
one  of  them  was  Mother  John  Baptist,  Provincial  of  the 
Order  in  Oakland,  California.  As  she  too  was  a  Canadian 
by  birth,  reminiscences  of  early  childhood  were  recounted 
and  to  the  great  joy  and  surprise  of  Rev.  Mother  Gene- 
vieve and  her  visitor  it  soon  developed  that  they  were 
the  two  close  friends  of  those  happy  days.  Here  indeed 
was  Josephine  Lagasse  as  Mother  John  Baptist.  Forty- 
five  years  had  elapsed  since  the  day  on  which  they  went 
to  the  Holy  Table  together ;  no  wonder  they  had  not  rec- 

85 


SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

ognized  each  other.  And  from  this  good  visitor,  many 
things  were  learned  of  the  school  life  of  Rev.  Mother 
Genevieve.  Always  a  good  pupil,  docile  and  dutiful, 
though  rather  timid ;  quite  a  contrast  to  the  other  chil- 
dren of  her  age  in  being  serious  and  straight-forward, 
yet  she  now  and  then  enjoyed  a  lively  game  or  a  pleas- 
ing story  as  much  as  any  of  them.  The  delightful  re- 
union of  the  two  friends  cannot  be  well  described ;  both 
felt  quite  young  again.  Mother  John  Baptist  was 
elected  Mother  General,  and  passed  to  the  Great  Beyond 
som.e  time  before  Mother  Genevieve. 

And  now  we  retrace  our  steps  to  find  in  April,  1848, 
Mr.  Granger  taking  his  large  family  of  ten  children  out 
to  the  Canadian  settlement  of  Bourbonnais,  111.  Al- 
though only  sixteen,  Sophia  had  expressed  a  wish  to  re- 
main with  the  Sisters  in  Montreal,  but,  being  her  father's 
favorite  daughter,  he  could  not  so  easily  part  with  her, 
and  she  was  one  of  the  band  on  the  long  and  perilous 
journey.  Her  mother  was  delicate  and  needed  her  assist- 
ance for  the  younger  members.  One  little  sister,  Marie — 
now  Sister  IMary  Alexis — was  only  one  and  a  half  years 
old  then.  The  hardships  in  the  new  colony,  especially 
in  the  long  severe  winters,  are  wonderful  to  relate.  How- 
ever, to  Sophia  they  proved  to  be  an  excellent  prepara- 
tion for  the  self-denial  of  the  religious  life. 

Miss  Julie  Rivard,  whose  brother,  Joseph,  was  one  of 
the  first  settlers  in  Bourbonnais,  felt  a  call  to  the  religious 
life,  so  her  friend  Sophia  and  she  often  planned  for  the 
future.  It  transpired  that  Julie  decided  on  entering  the 
Holy  Cross  Order  in  South  Bend,  Ind.  Sophia  turned  her 
thoughts  in  the  same  direction.  But  her  director.  Rev. 
Father  Courjeault,  had  other  plans  in  view.  In  1849  he 
announced  to  her  that  he  was  going  to  Chicago  on  busi- 
ness and  would  seek  admission  in  the  Convent  of  Mercy, 
for  her  and  her  young  friend  Louise  Martin  (S.  M. 
Angela)  who  also  wished  to  be  a  religious.  This  set- 
tled the  matter  for  those  anxious  maidens  and   they 

86 


SAINT  XAVIER'S— CHICAGO 

patiently  awaited  his  return.  Of  course  the  good  news 
he  brought  them  filled  their  young  hearts  with  joy,  and 
as  Mr.  David  Granger  had  promised  Sophia  on  leaving 
Canada,  that  she  could  enter  in  Chicago,  if  she  persevered 
in  her  intention,  nothing  remained  to  be  done  but  to  get 
ready  at  once.  Hence  we  find  the  happy  pair  in  Chicago, 
April  23,  1849,  bearing  an  excellent  letter  from  their 
Confessor.  When  the  entrance  to  the  Mercy  Convent  at 
131  Wabash  Avenue  was  opened  to  them  they  felt  as 
though  the  very  gates  of  Heaven  stood  ajar. 

About  the  same  time  a  Miss  Gillespie  had  written  to 
the  Mother  Superior  asking  for  admission  and  all  the 
necessary  arrangements  had  been  made.  On  her  way 
from  the  east  she  stopped  at  Notre  Dame,  Ind.,  to  see 
her  brother,  Rev.  Father  Gillespie.  Meeting  Father 
Sorin  she  changed  her  mind  about  coming  to  Chicago, 
and  entering  the  Holy  Cross  became  a  very  useful  mem- 
ber and  governed  the  Community  for  many  years  as 
Mother  Angela. 

In  a  very  short  time  after  her  entrance  Sister  Sophia 
was  sent  to  the  new  branch  House  in  Galena,  which  had 
been  opened  the  year  previous.  There  were  five  Sisters 
there  and  Sister  Mary  Gertrude  McGuire  was  in  charge. 
We  cannot  do  better  than  give  in  the  words  of  one  of  the 
young  Sisters  present  a  description  of  this  mission. 

"Sister  Gertrude  was  a  most  amiable  person  and 
seemed  more  like  an  inhabitant  of  the  celestial  city  than 
the  leader  in  a  new  and  arduous  mission,  where  the  Sis- 
ters were  expected  to  bear  many  hardships.  Within  a 
year  she  succumbed  to  consumption  from  exposure  and 
passed  to  her  eternal  home. 

She  was  replaced  by  Sister  Mary  Teresa  Riley,  a  per- 
son most  austere  and  exacting.  The  little  mission  be- 
came a  veritable  Egypt,  and  Sister  Sophia  above  all 
others  was  not  spared  any  of  its  rigors.  From  the  first 
it  was  evident  to  all,  even  the  youngest,  that  the  little 
French  Sister  was  remarkably  pious,  and  accordingly, 

87 


SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

day  by  day,  her  trials  increased.  In  proportion  to  the 
fidelity  with  which  she  discharged  each  duty  the  cross 
grew  heavier.  The  new  mistress  if  not  experienced  was 
at  least  untiring  in  her  requirements.  But  all  was  meek- 
ly and  calmly  borne  by  Sister  Sophia. 

God  cannot  be  outdone  in  generosity  so  we  find  our 
little  postulant  advancing  in  virtue  in  the  narrow  path. 
Nothing  seemed  too  difficult  for  her  in  the  domestic 
duties,  and  she  was  always  ready  to  give  a  helping  hand 
to  weaker  companions  as  far  as  obedience  would  permit. 
At  length  the  time  arrived  for  the  decision  of  the  Com- 
munity as  to  giving  the  holy  habit  with  the  white  veil  to 
the  three  aspirants — Sophia  Granger,  Anne  Drum,  and 
Ellen  Egan.  It  was  decided  in  their  favor  and  prepara- 
tions commenced  in  the  form  of  a  remote  retreat  of  one 
month,  and  at  the  end  of  this  a  solemn  retreat  of  eight 
days.  Nov.  13,  1849,  the  ceremony  took  place  in  a  tem- 
porary chapel  fitted  up  in  the  school-room  of  the  little 
Convent  in  Galena.  Lace  curtains  and  natural  flowers 
transformed  this  for  the  time  being,  and  the  young  postu- 
lants were  clothed  in  white  muslin  with  wreaths  on  their 
brows. 

Rev.  F.  McGorrisk  officiated  and  his  sermon  was  quite 
a  masterpiece.  His  text  was,  "You  have  not  chosen  me, 
etc."  In  a  very  agreeable  voice  and  impressive  manner 
he  enlarged  upon  the  happiness  of  the  religious  life, 
encouraging  the  young  novices  to  take  up  the  cross  gen- 
erously, and  in  his  ardent  way,  assured  them  if  they 
were  faithful  to  every  little  grace,  they  could  not  fail 
to  persevere  to  the  end. 

The  names  given  them  were  Sister  Mary  Genevieve, 
Sister  Mary  Scholastica  and  Sister  Mary  de  Pazzi  re- 
spectively. Now  the  real  novitiate  began  and  of  course 
trials  increased,  but  advancement  in  virtue  was  in  pro- 
portion. With  little  knowledge  of  English  when  she 
entered.  Sister  Mary  Genevieve,  owing  to  her  great  intel- 
ligence and  exceptional  memory,  had  succeeded  in  acquir- 

88 


SAINT  XAVIER'S— CHICAGO 

ing  sufficient  knowledge  of  the  language  to  teach  a  small 
French  class.  In  a  short  time  some  thought  she  must 
have  been  proficient  in  English  when  she  came  and  did 
not  make  it  known ;  but  the  truth  was  that  she  could  not 
speak  more  than  a  dozen  words  at  first,  yet  learned  it  so 
rapidly,  she  had  no  difficulty  in  making  herself  thorough- 
ly understood  by  everyone. 

In  the  meantime  as  the  school  increased,  duties  multi- 
plied, but  we  are  told  by  one  of  her  companions,  she 
seemed  never  to  lose  sight  of  her  spiritual  progress  and 
that  she  did  all  things  well  in  imitation  of  her  Divine 
Master.  Never  did  she  forget  a  command  or  a  prohibi- 
tion. Among  her  companions  Sister  Mary  Genevieve  was 
regarded  as  a  living  copy  of  the  "Novice's  Guide." 

The  local  Superior,  who  was  noted  for  her  strictness, 
did  not  once  relent  in  her  discipline.  No  doubt  she  real- 
ized that  the  young  novice  was  endowed  with  a  rare 
capacity  for  virtue,  as  from  her  entrance  it  was  evident 
she  was  accustomed  to  tracing  all  to  the  proper  source. 
She  knew  full  well  we  cannot  understand  the  inscrutable 
ways  of  God.  She  had  often  pondered  on  His  words  to 
the  Apostle — "What  I  do  thou  knowest  not  now,  but  thou 
shalt  know  hereafter." 

Sharp  reprimands  were  never  wanting  to  the  fervent 
novice.  We  do  not  want  to  imply  that  it  caused  a  gloomy 
feeling,  or  any  thought  of  bitterness.  Far  from  it,  the 
severity  was  taken  in  the  proper  spirit,  as  coming  from 
God.  In  fact  none  of  those  young  neophytes  were  more 
cheerful  or  light-hearted  at  recreation  than  was  Sister 
Mary  Genevieve.  At  their  request  she  would  frequently 
sing  a  little  French  hymn  for  them;  one  in  particular 
seemed  to  be  her  favorite,  "Je  mets  ma  confiance,  Vierge, 
en  votre  secour."  Often  after  the  labors  of  the  day,  when 
the  young  Sisters  were  unusually  quiet  and  thoughtful 
she  would  start  the  recreation  by  singing  "Malbrough  s'en 
va-t-en  guerre,  Ne  sais  qaund  reviendra,"  or  some  other 
little  ditty  that  never  failed  to  break  the  ice.     Though 

89 


SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

naturally  serious  she  was  quick  at  repartee,  which  always 
had  a  philosophic  strain  throughout. 

Notwithstanding  all  this,  Sister  Mary  Genevieve's  love 
of  recollection  was  so  perfect  in  time  of  silence,  she  was 
considered  by  her  companions  as  a  model  of  religious 
piety.  As  time  sped  on,  the  two  years  of  Novitiate  were 
drawing  to  a  close,  and  it  was  decided  to  admit  this  fer- 
vent novice  and  companions  to  the  holy  profession.  Two 
months  of  remote  retreat  finished  up  with  the  usual  eight 
days  of  solemn  recollection,  and  the  happy  day  arrived — 
Nov.  13,  1851. 

To  the  earnest  novice,  the  anticipation  of  this  longed- 
for  day,  and  the  overwhelming  joy  when  it  really  arrives, 
are  beyond  the  power  of  words  to  describe.  Even  the 
recollection  of  it  in  after  years  is  a  sweet  balm  to  the 
languishing  soul,  as  well  as  refreshment  to  the  weary 
body.  And  why?  Because,  as  a  certain  holy  writer  says, 
"She  hath  left  all  to  form  a  new  spiritual  kinship.  She 
hath  taken  Him  as  Spouse  until  death  doth  them  part — 
0  no !  death  does  not  part  them  in  eternity." 

Rt.  Rev.  Bishop  Van  de  Velde  had  promised  to  officiate 
on  this  occasion,  and  he  arrived  in  Galena  a  few  days 
before  the  thirteenth  with  Rev.  Mother  Agatha  and  Miss 
Matilda  Crowley,  a  postulant.  The  journey  from  Chi- 
cago in  a  stage  coach  at  this  season  was  not  only  unpleas- 
ant but  dangerous.  Too  many  passengers  crowded  into 
the  conveyance  and  in  some  unaccountable  way  the  stage 
was  overturned.  Rev.  Mother's  left  arm  was  broken,  and 
was  very  painful,  but  her  spirit  of  endurance  was  heroic 
and  she  conducted  the  long  ceremony  on  the  morning  in 
question  as  though  nothing  had  happened.  Bishop  Van 
de  Velde  was  assisted  by  Rev.  Dr.  Denis  Dunne  and  Rev. 
B.  McGorrisk.  Rev.  Mother's  condition  hastened  her  re- 
turn to  Chicago,  and  to  the  surprise  of  all  she  brought 
Sister  Mary  Genevieve  with  her,  and  left  the  new  postu- 
lant in  her  place.    Her  departure  was  a  cause  of  great 

90 


SAINT  XAVIER'S— CHICAGO      ^     ]  '  i '  2^.! 

regret  to  Sisters  and  pupils,  for  they  had  learned  her 
worth  and  they  loved  her  dearly. 

After  five  more  years  of  struggle  against  fearful  odds, 
it  was  decided  in  Chicago  in  1858  to  recall  the  Sisters 
from  Galena,  though  the  people  had  always  appreciated 
and  respected  them,  in  fact  did  all  in  their  power  to  re- 
tain them.  They  were  so  far  from  the  Mother  House, 
they  could  not  receive  the  necessary  help,  and  financial 
matters  were  at  the  lowest  ebb,  so  it  was  difficult  to  man- 
age as  they  wished. 

In  1852  the  Pastor  of  Bourbonnais,  111.,  asked  for  Sis- 
ters and  they  were  sent,  Sister  Mary  Genevieve  amongst 
the  number.  This  was  necessary  as  she  understood  their 
language  and  few  of  them  could  speak  English.  The  Sis- 
ters were  badly  needed  at  home,  but  the  Bishop  desired 
Rev,  Mother  Agatha  to  accede  to  the  good  father's  re- 
quest. Sister  Mary  Paula  Ruth  was  sent  in  charge  with 
Sister  Mary  Genevieve  and  two  others.  No  doubt  obe- 
dience won  for  them  a  glorious  recompense,  though  under 
the  guise  of  failure,  as  the  parish  was  so  poor  it  was  not 
found  to  be  self-supporting,  and  the  Mother  Superior 
was  obliged  in  less  than  a  year  to  withdraw  the  Sisters. 

Sister  Mary  Genevieve  filled  the  office  of  portress,  be- 
cause no  one  else  could  understand  the  visitors.  Her  rel- 
atives lived  in  Bourbonnais.  It  is  related  that  when  her 
friends  called  to  see  her — parents  or  otherwise,  she 
showed  them  into  the  parlor  and  excusing  herself  went 
and  asked  permission  to  talk  to  them,  so  perfect  was 
her  spirit  of  obedience. 

On  the  return  of  the  Sisters  from  Bourbonnais  in  1853 
Rev.  Mother  Agatha,  who  had  been  attending  to  the  nov- 
ices  at  home,  decided  on  calling  a  meeting  of  the  Chapter 
for  the  election  of  a  Mistress  for  the  Novitiate.  Her  own 
duties  were  always  on  the  increase  and  vocations  were 
multiplying,  therefore  it  was  necessary  to  have  the  young 
aspirants  formed  in  the  principles  of  the  religious  life 
by  one  who  could  be  in  closer  touch  with  them.    Sister 

91 


SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

Mary  Genevieve  was  proposed  and  elected  to  her  great 
consternation.  She  was  then  in  her  twenty-first  year 
and  not  quite  two  years  professed,  but  her  great  prudence 
and  piety  supplied  for  the  lack  of  years. 

When  Mother  Mary  Vincent  was  elected  Superior  on 
the  death  of  Rev.  Mother  Paula  in  1855  Mother  Mary 
Genevieve  was  chosen  by  her  for  the  office  of  Assistant. 
In  two  years  different  arrangements  were  made  by  the 
Mother  Superior  and  another  Assistant — Sister  Mary  de 
Chantal — was  appointed,  while  Sister  Mary  Gertrude 
Gibbons  became  Mistress  of  Novices.  However,  in  1858, 
Mother  Mary  Francis  was  appointed  Superior  by  Bishop 
Smith,  Administrator,  and  she  restored  Mother  Gene- 
vieve to  the  Novitiate.  Again  we  find  the  young  Mistress 
doing  all  in  her  power  by  word  and  example  to  form  the 
minds  and  souls  of  the  youthful  aspirants  committed  to 
her  care.  Several  are  still  able  to  testify  to  the  lasting 
impression  made  on  them  by  her  admirable  tact,  her 
timely  reminders  and  her  tender  corrections,  which  were 
always  those  of  a  loving  mother. 

She  had  passed  through  the  school  of  adversity  both 
before  and  after  her  entrance,  but  it  only  made  her  more 
circumspect  and  more  tender  of  the  feelings  of  others. 
She  had  learned  in  her  severe  training  to  leave  out  the 
human  element,  and  to  think  only  of  the  Master-hand 
working  through  His  instruments.  Now  she  endeavored 
to  lead  those  innocent  souls  entrusted  to  her  care  to  serve 
Him  rather  through  love  than  fear  of  displeasing.  Her 
necessary  corrections  were  given  in  so  motherly  a  way 
they  never  caused  a  moment  of  bitterness,  and  none  ever 
left  her  without  feeling  satisfied.  She  never  expressed 
surprise  at  obstacles  or  temptations  made  knowni  to  her, 
but  endeavored  to  clear  up  the  difficulties  without  alarm- 
ing the  timid,  or  casting  even  a  doubt  on  the  troubled 
soul.  At  any  hour,  day  or  night,  they  could  always  have 
free  access  to  her  without  causing  her  the  least  annoy- 
ance. 

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SAINT  XAVIER'S— CHICAGO 

To  one  young  novice  whose  favorite  brother  had  left 
for  Rome  on  the  eve  of  her  summer  retreat  and  whom 
her  mistress  found  bathed  in  tears  after  his  departure, 
Mother  Genevieve  said,  "Well,  my  child  what  is  the  mat- 
ter?" "0  Mother,  I  fear  I  shall  never  see  my  dear 
brother  again."  "Where  is  your  confidence  in  God? 
Well,  dear,  dry  your  tears  as  it  would  be  a  very  sad 
thing  to  bring  such  a  companion  into  retreat  with  you; 
pray  for  a  safe  journey  for  your  brother  and  Cod  will 
take  care  of  him." 

Anyone  who  is  at  all  acquainted  with  the  religious 
life,  must  recognize  the  fact,  that  the  training  in  the 
Novitiate  is  a  serious  responsibility.  No  matter  how 
piously  inclined  or  how  carefully  formed  in  the  home 
circle,  the  young  aspirants,  on  entering  a  community 
must  begin  in  real  earnest  to  build  a  structure  quite  diff- 
erent from  anything  heretofore  conceived.  They  must 
lay  the  foundations  for  a  dwelling  not  made  by  hands — 
a  spiritual  edifice  in  which  to  lay  up  treasures  of  inestima- 
ble value  for  the  great  hereafter.  It  would  seem  at  first 
sight  that  it  cannot  be  a  difficult  task,  since  it  is  a  labor 
of  love ;  for  what  pious,  zealous,  young  person,  after  gen- 
erously obeying  the  call  does  not  wish  to  co-operate  faith- 
fully with  the  many  graces  given,  for  her  advancement 
in  the  way  of  perfection.  Many  do,  but  if  all  did,  how 
many  more  saints  would  adorn  the  religious  state.  Hence, 
the  Novice-Mistress  cannot  help  feeling  how  much  de- 
volves upon  her  for  the  promotion  of  this  great  but 
meritorius  work.  Human  nature  is  weak,  but  even  with 
the  best  intentions  delusions  may  creep  in,  and  some- 
times these  are  not  easily  eradicated. 

Mother  Genevieve  was  fully  aware  of  her  responsibil- 
ity, and  spared  no  pains  to  mould  the  tender  souls  com- 
mitted to  her  motherly  care. 

However,  in  May,  1873,  all  this  was  changed,  as  before 
stated ;  the  Novice-Mistress  was  elected  Mother  Superior, 
much  to  the  sorrow  of  the  novices,  but  very  much  to  the 

93 


SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

joy  of  the  Community  Sisters.  In  some  ways  it  could  not 
be  a  great  change  for  her,  as  nearly  all  of  these  had  been 
her  children  in  the  Novitiate.  But  business  matters  were 
new  to  her,  yet  it  did  not  take  her  long  to  familiarize 
herself  with  them,  for  she  was  capable  of  close  applica- 
tion, and  she  was  blessed  with  a  wonderful  memory. 
Many  urgent  affairs  were  calling  for  immediate  atten- 
tion, and  no  time  could  be  lost  in  retrospection. 

An  Order  for  a  Picture 

Will  you  paint  me  a  picture,  my  artist  friend? 

A  picture  sweeter  than  all  the  rest, 

The  dearest  spot  in  the  wide,  wide  world 

To  my  heart,  and  yours  perhaps.  Ah !  you  have  guessed — 

The  Convent  Chapel.    Well,  listen  to  me. 

And  hear  how  I  want  this  picture  to  be. 

You  know  the  Chapel !  Yes,  many  a  time 

Have  you  knelt  in  it ;  many  a  time  you  have  brought 

Your  burden  of  grief  to  its  hallowed  steps. 

There  were  some  days,  I  believe,  v/hen  you  thought 

That  the  burden  was  greater  than  you  could  bear. 

And  that  it  could  only  be  lifted  there. 

And  so  you  can  well  understand  all  the  thought 
That  moves  me  to  speak  as  I  speak  to  you  now. 
I  need  not  describe  how  the  altar  must  look — 
You  know  it — its  carved  fair  beauty,  and  how 
The  white  angels  watch  on  the  left  and  the  right, 
Where  the  Holy  of  Holies  rests  day  and  night. 

And  You  know  the  rows  of  quiet  straight  stalls 

That  line  the  Chapel  on  either  side; 

And  the  windows  above,   where  the  sunlight  streams 

through 
In  a  purple  and  yellow  and  crimson  tide — 

94 


i 


SAINT  XAVIER'S— CHICAGO 

You  will  picture  them  well,  for  you  understand, 
And  the  touch  of  Love  will  be  guiding  your  hand. 

But,  Oh !  what  artist  can  paint  the  quiet, 

The  holy  peace  of  this  calm  retreat? 

Far  off  from  the  world  and  its  strife  and  din, 

In  the  dusk  of  the  evening  still  and  sweet, 

When  only  the  altar-lamp's  rosy-hued  glow 

Shines  out  through  the  darkness.    You  cannot,  ah  no ! 

— Alice  E.  Shannon,  '93. 


9R 


CHAPTER  EIGHT 

The  cholera  epidemic  of  1873.  The  new 
Academy  at  Twenty-ninth  and  Wabash. 
Kindness  of  Rt.  Rev.  Thos.  Foley,  Adm.  of 
Chicago.  "In  Memoriam"  of  the  Bishop — 
Mary  Thompson.  His  remains  are  taken  to 
Baltimore. 


CHAPTER  EIGHT 

August  16,  1873,  Rev.  Mother  Genevieve  received  a  let- 
ter from  the  Chancellor's  office,  stating  that  some  physi- 
cians had  sent  a  committee  to  the  Bishop,  to  represent  the 
deplorable  condition  of  some  poor  sufferers,  who  were 
attacked  by  the  cholera,  to  plead  for  Sisters  to  visit  them 
and  if  possible  to  remain  and  nurse  them.  She  read  this 
letter  to  Sister  Mary  Alphonsus  Butler,  who  immediately 
offered  to  go,  and  asked  for  Sister  Mary  Jane  Duggan 
to  accompany  her.  Rev.  Mother  said,  "This  must  be 
optional ;  I  cannot  appoint  any  Sister  to  risk  her  life,  but 
you  may  ask  the  one  you  choose,  and  if  she  be  willing 
to  undertake  the  labor  I  consent."  Sister  Mary  Jane 
was  only  too  glad  to  be  chosen  to  undertake  the  labor 
of  helping  the  cholera  victims.  It  was  a  very  warm  day 
when  these  two  Sisters  started  out  with  only  a  vague  de- 
scription of  the  location  where  the  scourge  had  its  head- 
quarters. "Somewhere  south  of  the  city,"  the  letter 
stated.  They  entered  many  houses  between  the  Hospital 
and  Fifty-seventh  Street  but  found  no  sufferers.  Though 
very  tired  one  of  them  said,  "Let  us  go  west  a  couple  of 
blocks."  This  couple  of  blocks  extended  from  Cottage 
Grove  to  State  Street.  Just  as  they  reached  the  latter 
a  gentleman  accosted  them  asking  if  they  were  Sisters 
of  Mercy.  He  said  he  was  Dr.  Simon,  and  he  was  a  mem- 
ber of  the  committee  that  applied  for  the  service  of  the 
Sisters;  that  aid  was  needed  for  the  souls  as  well  as  for 
the  bodies  of  the  stricken  people.  The  old  Small-pox  Hos- 
pital was  then  located  on  a  prairie  on  Wentworth  Avenue 
between  Thirty-seventh  and  Thirty-eighth.  There  some 
of  those  sought  by  the  Sisters  had  been  placed,  and  this 
good  Doctor  was  anxious  that  the  Sisters  should  visit  sev- 

99 


SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

eral  houses  in  that  neighborhood  and  advise  the  people 
to  bring  the  cholera  patients  to  that  hospital  so  they 
might  have  better  care,  and  also,  to  prevent  the  spread 
of  the  disease.    They  promised  to  do  so  next  day,  also  to 
ask  permission  to  stay  every  day  in  the  hospital,  and  to 
try  to  send  a  detail  at  night,  as  no  Sisters  could  remain 
except  during  the  day.    A  veiy  worthy  lady,  Mrs.  Cobb, 
who  had  become  a  convert  to  the  Catholic  faith,  made 
her  home  in  Mercy  Hospital.    This  lady  loved  to  wait  on 
the  sick  and  when  she  was  told  a  night  detail  was  needed, 
she  joyfully  offered  her  services.     August  17,  1873,  the 
Sisters  went  to  the  duty  assigned  them,  and  it  is  not  pos- 
sible to  give  an  accurate  account  of  the  terrible  state 
of  the  Hospital  and  its  patients.    An  old  weather-beaten 
frame  shanty,  unpainted,  unclean,  and  bereft  of  all  furni- 
ture, except  beds  in  which  men  and  women  were  suffer- 
ing most  excruciating  torture,  without  any  human  being 
to  give  aid  or  comfort.    There  was  no  separation  of  the 
sexes;  all  were  in  one  large  room;  and,  to  make  matters 
worse,  the  women  had  no  proper  clothing.     All  these 
patients  were  Norwegians  and  members  of  the  Lutheran 
denomination;   not  one   Catholic  among  them,   yet  no 
Catholics  could  be  better  pleased  to  see  the  Sisters  than 
were  these  poor  people.    The  first  thing  to  be  done  was 
to  find  a  separate  place  for  the  sick  women ;  and  a  Sister 
asked  Dr.  Simon  v/hat  could  be  done  about  this.    He  said : 
"Do  what  you  think  best,  but  this  is  the  only  room  that 
has  a  window."     However,  the  man  and  his  wife,  who 
had  the  care  of  this  plague  spot,  helped  to  fix  a  couple  of 
rooms ;  and  to  provide  ventilation  holes  were  made  in  the 
wall  of  each  room. 

Two  men  were  dying  when  the  Sisters  arrived  at  the 
Hospital ;  not  a  prayer  was  offered  by  their  bedside ;  their 
wives  said  their  minister  could  not  keep  their  husbands 
alive;  they  did  not  want  him  to  come  and  disturb  their 
death-beds,  and  they  did  not  believe  in  prayer.  Poor 
wretches  in  tortue  here,  and  what  about  the  hereafter? 

100 


SAINT  XAVIER'S— CHICAGO 

God  being  the  Father  of  all,  to  His  mercy  we  must  look 
in  such  sad  circumstances,  and  "judge  not." 

The  first  day's  nursing  produced  some  amelioration  of 
the  sad  condition.  When  the  homeward  journey  was 
taken,  people  called  the  Sisters  into  several  houses  to  see 
the  sick;  the  greater  part  of  these  had  big  feather  beds 
under  andover  them,  although  the  weather  was  extremely 
warm  at  the  time.  However  poor  the  Hospital  accom- 
modation was,  surely  it  was  better  than  could  be  found 
in  the  miserable  places  which  these  people  called  home. 

One  morning  about  eight  o'clock,  the  Sisters  arrived 
at  the  post  of  duty,  to  find  but  two  living  of  the  dozen 
whom  they  had  under  their  care  the  previous  day.  One 
young  woman  had  just  arrived ;  she  had  been  ill  for  about 
ten  days;  she  first  had  cholera,  and  it  had  turned  to 
typhoid  fever.  Some  two  or  three  mustard  plasters  were 
fastened  in  her  flesh  and  had  eaten  holes  there.  To  get 
these  away  was  a  terrible  ordeal  for  both  the  patient  and 
the  Sister.  This  woman  was  a  scold  and  she  cursed  and 
struck  the  patient  nurse,  who  was  trying  to  relieve  her. 
She  said  the  Sisters  were  paid  for  all  they  did  by  the 
city.  How  she  conceived  this  untruth  it  is  impossible 
to  say,  for  even  carfare  was  never  asked  for,  nor  offered. 
Certainly  the  reward  was  expected,  but  not  an  earthly 
one. 

A  male  nurse,  an  English  Episcopalian,  was  very  kind 
to  the  patients;  the  two  Sisters  and  this  man  (except  the 
night  nurse  supplied  by  the  Sisters)  were  all  the  help  to 
be  found  in  this  wretched  abode.  The  janitor  brought 
the  dead  away  and  went  for  the  food  supply,  which  his 
wife  cooked.  How  anyone  could  eat  in  such  a  place  is 
a  mystery,  which  the  Sisters  could  not  solve.  They 
brought  luncheon  the  first  day  and  went  outside  to  the 
prairie  to  eat  it,  but  the  experience  of  the  morning 
removed  all  desire  for  food ;  they  left  the  lunch  for  some 
poor  tramp  to  relieve  his  hunger.    During  the  following 

101 


SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

days,  while  the  Sisters  attended  these  plague-stricken 
people,  they  preferred  to  omit  the  noon  meal. 

Every  morning  the  sad  discovery  of  the  first  was 
repeated — ^new  faces — those  whom  they  saw  the  previous 
day  dead  and  buried,  unshriven,  but  let  it  be  hoped  not 
unforgiven. 

Only  two  of  these  strange  people  deemed  it  necessary 
to  prepare  for  the  Judgment  that  is  just,  as  well  as 
merciful. 

Among  the  patients  was  a  man  who  would  take  medi- 
cine from  no  hand  but  the  Sisters.  He  had  been  ill  about 
ten  days,  and  death  was  approaching.  To  the  request  of 
making  some  preparation  for  the  awful  moment,  he  con- 
sented, saying  he  was  an  Episcopalian.  His  minister 
being  sent  for,  he  asked  this  clergyman  to  pray  with  him. 
He  did  say  a  short  prayer,  then  marked  some  passages  in 
a  Bible  and  left  it  on  his  bed ;  the  dying  man  was  unable 
to  read  them.  His  wife  had  been  sent  for  and  was  present, 
but  she  could  not  control  herself  sufficiently  to  read  aloud. 
Sister  Mary  Alphonsus,  however,  read  the  marked  chap- 
ters and  taught  him  how  to  make  an  act  of  contrition 
before  he  died.  The  same  day,  an  old  lady  who  had  been 
in  the  place  for  over  a  week  was  notified  that  eternity 
was  near.  "If  I  am  to  die  here,"  said  this  patient,  "I 
want  your  minister  to  prepare  me  to  go  your  way,  for 
surely  it  must  be  the  right  way."  Her  son  was  beside 
her  as  she  spoke,  and  he  asked  if  he  might  go  for  the 
priest.  He  did,  and  brought  a  German  clergyman  who 
asked  if  she  had  been  baptized.  She  said,  "Yes,  in  the 
Lutheran  Church."  He  heard  her  confession  and  gave 
her  the  Sacraments  of  Holy  Eucharist  and  Extreme 
Unction.  Then  enrolled  her  in  the  scapular  of  the  Mother 
of  Jesus,  before  whom  she  soon  appeared.  This  happy 
death  repaid  the  Sisters  for  all  the  previous  discourage- 
ment that  had  been  theirs,  while  striving  to  aid  these 
poor  afflicted  people. 

A  young  man,  who  had  been  very  ill  for  some  days, 

102 


SAINT  XAVIER'S— CHICAGO 

convalesced  and  was  sent  home  with  advice  about  light 
food.  He  returned  from  a  relapse  in  a  few  days;  being 
asked  what  he  had  eaten,  he  said :  "Nottings  to  make  me 
sick — only  sour  crout,  corn  beef,  a  drink  of  butter-milk, 
von  glass  of  beer  und  vour  pieces  cut  into  von  pie."  Sister 
said,  laughing:  "A  pie?"  "No,  no,  Swister,  not  a  pie, 
but  four  pieces  cut  into  von,  see?"  He  was  carefully 
nursed  and  got  better,  but  the  Sisters  wondered  what 
kind  of  meals  he  usually  partook  of,  when  he  considered 
this  one  suitable  for  a  delicate  stomach. 

The  cholera  abated  the  last  part  of  August;  Rush 
Medical  College  sent  a  young  doctor  as  intern,  and  school 
being  about  to  open,  the  Sisters'  services  were  required 
at  home;  hence  they  made  only  occasional  visits,  as  the 
necessity  for  daily  attendance  was  ended. 

The  new  Academy  on  Wabash  Avenue  and  Twenty- 
Ninth  Street  was  ready  for  occupancy  Aug.  28,  1873, 
though  not  by  any  means  fully  equipped;  the  simplest 
and  most  necessary  furniture,  such  as  chairs,  dishes,  etc., 
Vv'ere  conspicuous  by  their  absence. 

The  debt  was  immense,  every  piece  of  property  was 
mortgaged,  even  the  furniture — such  as  pianos,  at  ten 
per  cent ;  and  floating  expenses  of  the  past  few  years  were 
constantly  bobbing  up.  The  new  Superior,  Rev.  Mother 
Genevieve,  finding  the  financial  aflfairs  of  the  Community 
in  so  very  critical  a  condition,  was  obliged  to  lay  the 
matter  before  the  Bishop.  Of  course,  he  was  helpless 
himself,  as  his  resources  had  been  crippled  by  the  fire, 
but  he  encouraged  her  all  in  his  power  to  keep  off  cred- 
itors as  long  as  possible. 

So  great  became  the  anxiety  of  this  good  Mother, 
together  with  the  great  burden  and  responsibility  of  her 
new  office,  that  she  went  after  a  few  months  and  begged 
of  him  to  allow  her  to  resign.  He  asked  her  why.  She 
replied  that  she  could  get  no  rest  night  or  day,  her  worry 
was  so  great.  He  said,  "I  might  say  the  same.  Mother, 
and  if  you  could  see  the  Holy  Father  he  would  most  likely 

103 


SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

tell  you  the  same;  responsibility  is  not  a  downy  pillow." 
And  so  it  was,  from  time  to  time,  until  finally  Bishop 
Foley  said :  "Mother,  I  cannot  accept  your  resignation  of 
office;  furthermore,  I  now  forbid  you  to  speak  of  it 
again."  This  put  an  end  to  any  hope  of  release  from 
this  unusual  burden;  but  it  did  not  end  the  practical 
advice,  the  kind  words  of  good  counsel  given  to  her  by 
him,  of  which  she  faithfully  availed  herself  throughout 
the  long  years  of  struggle,  endeavoring  strenuously  to 
ward  off  the  utter  loss  of  all  Community  property. 

Some  still  living  can  tell  how  depressed  she  was  for 
some  time  after  Bishop  Foley  refused  to  accept  her  resig- 
nation, for  she  loved  a  life  of  retirement  and  it  seemed 
contrary  to  her  nature  to  come  in  contact  so  frequently 
with  the  public.  Yet  she  did  her  duty  and  did  it  well.  A 
member  of  the  Council  who  worked  in  unison  with  her  for 
several  years  testified  as  follows:  "To  her  we  owe  our 
preservation  from  financial  ruin,  as  well  as  the  peace, 
union  and  good  order  that  reign  in  the  Community." 

When  her  first  trienniate  had  expired  she  was  happy 
to  be  released,  but  her  happiness  was  of  short  duration, 
as  she  was  re-elected.  Bishop  Foley  and  Rev.  Maurice 
Burke  attending  June  8,  1876. 

In  a  few  years  things  came  to  a  crisis,  notwithstanding 
the  most  careful  management  and  economical  way  of 
living.  One  piece  of  property  after  another  had  to  go  in 
order  to  sustain  the  credit  of  the  Institution  and  to  meet 
clamorous  creditors.  In  this  way,  during  the  year  1873, 
no  less  than  ninety  thousand  dollars  were  paid  out  on 
interest  and  back  debts. 

Yet  the  day  came  when  something  more  had  to  be 
done  to  save  what  was  left  for  the  Community,  viz. :  the 
Hospital  and  the  Academy  at  Twenty-Ninth  Street. 

Taking  counsel  on  the  subject  the  Bishop  directed 
Mother  Genevieve  to  send  two  Sisters  out  soliciting  from 
the  public.  She  begged  of  him  to  let  them  try  some  other 
way,  but  he  insisted.     Then  she  concluded  rather  than 

104 


SAINT  XAVIER'S— CHICAGO 

ask  any  Sister  to  do  this  humiliating  work  she  would  go 
herself,  requesting  Sister  Mary  Raphael  to  accompany 
her. 

One  can  imagine  them  going  from  store  to  store  in 
the  city,  receiving  refusals  here,  rebuffs  there  and  some- 
times having  the  door  slammed  in  their  faces. 

It  was  not  very  long  when  they  went  to  the  good  kind 
Bishop,  who  felt  keenly  all  they  had  to  endure ;  he  then 
relented,  telling  them  they  need  go  no  farther. 

But  something  must  be  done  to  remove  the  high  rate 
of  interest  and  save  the  little  rmaining  property.  It  was 
finally  settled  that  all  of  it  should  be  sold  for  the  mort- 
gage. As  business  was  at  a  very  low  ebb,  no  one  could 
be  found  to  buy  it  in,  and  hold  it  for  the  Sisters;  but 
when  the  day  for  the  public  auction  came,  the  Bishop 
sent  a  friend  who  secured  it  for  him,  and  he  assumed 
the  indebtedness.  This  was  in  February,  1877,  and  the 
deeds  remained  in  the  Bishop's  hands  until  his  death  in 
1879,  Rev.  Mother  Genevieve  paying  him  interest  semi- 
annually, and  a  small  portion  of  the  principal  each  year. 

It  is  with  pleasure  many  little  incidents  are  recalled  of 
Bishop  Foley's  fatherly  intercourse,  especially  when  he 
felt  the  Sisters  were  laboring  under  difficulties  which 
were  more  or  less  depressing.  He  was  particularly 
interested  in  the  occupants  of  the  Novitiate.  This  may 
be  seen  in  the  following  letter: 

Holy  Innocents'  Day,  the  postulants  and  novices  have 
a  merry  time;  they  elect  one  of  themselves  to  be  Rev. 
Mother  for  that  day.  The  postulant  elected  in  1877 
notified  Bishop  Foley  and  asked  him  to  preside  at  her 
installation.    The  following  is  his  reply : 

Rev.  Mother  Harriet,  Superior-Elect, 

Mercy  Convent,  Wabash  Avenue  and  29th  Street, 
Chicago,  Illinois. 

Rev,  Mother: 

Accept  my  felicitations  in  advance  of  your  installation. 

105 


SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

I  am  most  happy  to  learn  that  the  excellent  members  of 
your  Community  have  succeeded  in  putting  off  the  yoke 
of  the  old  and  decrepit  regime,  which  has  so  long  chafed 
their  necks,  and  that  under  the  present  enlightened 
government  of  your  maternity,  old  age  will  be  placed  on 
the  upper  shelf  and  that  youth,  bright,  beaming  and 
boisterous  is  to  manage  the  floor.  I  trust  your  cabinet 
assistants  will  be  chosen  with  as  much  judiciousness  as 
characterized  your  own  happy  election;  the  oppressive- 
ness of  rules  will  be  buried  with  the  monastic  barbarities 
of  the  Middle  Ages.  In  this  age  of  progress,  it  is  becom- 
ing that  the  moral  world  should  be  like  the  physical  and 
have  no  light  but  such  as  the  real  suns,  moons  and  stars 
give  forth. 

Long  live  the  new  Superior! 

Most  respectfully, 

Thomas  Foley,  Bp.  Adm. 

Feast  of  St.  John,  Dec.  27,  1877. 

The  Spanish  nuns  to  whom  Bishop  Foley  refers  in  the 
following  note  could  not  speak  a  word  of  English,  and 
he  was  aware  the  two  Sisters  he  named  to  entertain  them 
could  neither  speak  nor  understand  Spanish,  but  he 
always  enjoyed  a  little  joke: 

Tuesday,  June  4,  1878. 
Dear  Mother: 

I  send  you  three  Carmelites — exiles  from  Guatemala. 
They  will  stay  with  you  a  few  days,  until  a  priest  comes 
from  Savanol,  Georgia,  to  conduct  them  to  their  new 
home.  Sisters  Mary  Pius  and  Dolores  may  speak  with 
them  all  the  time.    Yours  truly, 

Thomas  Foley,  Bp.  Adm. 

Another  amusing  letter  is  to  the  pupils.  The  Feast  of 
the  Holy  Rosary,  1874,  they  were  allowed  to  go  to  their 
homes  on  condition  they  would  return  the  same  day,  but 
they  did  not  return  until  the  next  morning.  The  directress 

106 


i 


SAINT  XAVIER'S— CHICAGO 

determined  they  would  not  be  allowed  to  go  out  again 
until  Thanksgiving  Day.  The  girls  having  found  this 
out  immediately  wrote  to  their  fatherly  Bishop  for 
redress.    The  following  was  his  reply : 

To  the  Prisoners  of  St.  Xavier's  Academy, 
Chicago,  Illinois. 

My  Deal-  Children: 

I  am  truly  sorry  to  leam  that  you  are  to  be  imprisoned 
until  Thanksgiving,  and  more  sorry  to  know  you  have 
deserved  your  punishment.  I  think  it  was  awful  for  you 
children  to  overstay  your  time.  I  am  sorry  it  will  be  no 
use  to  appeal  to  the  Sister  Directress  in  the  matter,  for 
as  she  has  given  up  home,  mother  and  the  world  she 
thinks  we  ought  to  do  whatever  she  has  done.  If  you 
will  try  to  be  very  good,  I  will  speak  to  the  Sister  on  my 
next  visit,  and,  perhaps,  we  can  induce  her  to  change 
her  determination.  We  shall  have  to  promise  never  to  do 
the  same  thing  again,  because  there  can  be  no  pardon 
without  purpose  of  amendment. 

I  am  pending  my  blessing  to  all  the  prisoners. 

Very  faithfully,  your  father  in  God, 

Thomas  Foley,  Bp.  Adm. 

February  27th  had  for  nine  years  been  a  gala  day  at 
St.  Xavier's.  It  was  the  anniversary  of  Bishop  Foley's 
consecration  and  he  always  spent  the  afternoon  with  his 
devoted  children,  making  them  supremely  happy.  At  the 
beginning  of  the  year  1879,  they  commenced  as  usual  to 
prepare  a  little  entertainment  for  their  expected  guest. 
It  was  remarkable  that  a  certain  recitation  on  the  pro- 
gramme was  "The  Inquiry,"  in  which  the  refrain  of  each 
stanza  asks  where  happiness  may  be  found.  After  all 
the  elements  were  questioned  in  vain,  the  reply  came  at 
last — "  In  Heaven."  And  it  really  happened  that  when 
the  twenty-seventh  came  that  year.  Heaven  had  claimed 
the  tender  father  for  whom  they  were  preparing. 

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SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

Feb.  8, 1879,  the  good  Bishop  had  returned  from  a  visit 
to  his  mother  in  Baltimore,  having  contracted  a  severe 
cold,  which  soon  developed  into  typhoid  pneumonia. 
Finding  on  the  17th  that  his  case  was  hopeless  he  asked 
for  the  last  rites  of  the  Church,  which  were  administered 
by  his  Vicar  General,  Dr.  McMullen,  whom  he  appointed 
Administrator.  The  only  regret  he  expressed  was  for  his 
aged  mother,  to  whom  he  knew  his  departure  would  be  a 
great  affliction.  Calmly  the  good  Bishop  gave  up  his  dear 
soul  to  his  Maker  at  three  o'clock  on  the  morning  of 
Feb.  19,  1879. 

Full  of  health  and  energy  he  was  stricken  while  in  the 
zenith  of  his  usefulness  and  passed  away  regretted  alike 
by  all  denominations.  A  ripe  scholar,  a  man  of  great 
dignity  and  attractive  personality,  he  was  unostentatious 
to  a  fault,  always  avoiding  publicity.  The  great  work  of 
his  last  years  was  the  rebuilding  of  the  Holy  Name 
Cathedral,  which  had  been  reduced  to  ashes  in  the  fire. 

According  to  a  wish  expressed  a  year  before,  his 
remains  were  brought  to  Baltimore,  the  home  of  his 
childhood,  where  his  dear  old  mother  grieved  over  the 
rather  sudden  departure  of  her  idolized  son,  but  edified 
everyone  by  her  Christian  resignation. 

IN  MEMORIAM 
RIGHT  REV.  BISHOP  FOLEY,  D.D. 

Written  for  February  27.  1879 

Heaven's  portals  widely  open. 

Angels,  that  day's  mission  done. 
Crowded  round  the  throne  of  Jesus, 

Telling  all  the  victories  won; 
Holy  deeds  were  there  recorded. 

Some  had  sad,  sad  tales  to  tell; 
Others  whispered  deeds  of  kindness, 

Tales  which  Jesus  loves  so  well. 

s  108 


SAINT  XAVIER'S— CHICAGO 

Soon  a  shining  seraph  hastened, 

Angel  of  a  school  was  he, 
Tells  he  now  how  in  a  convent 

Children's  hearts  were  bounding  free, 
Bounding  in  anticipation, 

Of  a  fast  approaching  day, 
Feast  of  one  whose  earthly  presence 

Brightened  up  their  young  life's  way. 

How  for  weeks  they  had  been  planning. 

Planning  to  delight  that  heart. 
Sparing  naught  that  would  give  pleasure, 

Conjuring  every  childish  art; 
Listening  kindly,  smiling  sweetly. 

Unto  them  our  dear  Lord  said, 
"Little  know  ye  that  your  shepherd 

Spends  his  feast  with  us  instead." 

Cherubs  hear  in  joyous  wonder. 

Words  that  to  their  happy  band 
Add  another  star  resplendent, 

While  before  the  throne  they  stand. 
Seraphs  linger  while  admiring 

Wisdom's  ways  so  undefined. 
Dropping  now  a  tear  of  sorrow — 

For  the  dear  ones  left  behind. 

Yet,  alas !  those  children  knew  not 

Of  the  word  gone  forth  that  day, 
While  they  planned  and  planned  in  earnest, 

Choosing  recitations  gay. 
Strange  to  say,  one  piece  selected 

For  the  day  they  longed  to  see 
Was  the  dirge-like,  sad  "Inquiry," 

Where  can  any  happiness  be? 

Crushed  our  hearts,  our  spirits  gloomy. 
At  the  dawn  of  that  sad  day, 

109 


SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

When  we  learned  that  death's  cold  angel 

Bore  our  father's  soul  away. 
Little  know  we  of  life's  crosses, 

Thus  far  light  has  been  its  care, 

Truly  this  has  been  the  greatest 

Some  of  us  have  had  to  bear. 

Father,  in  thy  Home  eternal, 

Pray  for  thy  poor  children  here; 
Know  that  sinful  chains  may  bind  us. 

Ever  are  they  clanking  near. 
Beg  that  we  as  earth  fades  from  us. 

Or  its  claims  we  fling  aside, 
May  say  with  thee  in  truthful  language, 

"To  do  my  duty  I  have  tried." 

Till  the  ceaseless  waves  of  life 

Mingle  with  the  silvery  spray 
Of  Eternity's  great  ocean, 

With  us  will  thy  memory  stay. 
Then  once  more  we'll  gather  round  thee. 

As  in  the  happy  days  of  yore ; 
When  our  barks  are  safely  anchored. 

And  we  rest  on  Heaven's  shore. 

— Mary  Thompson,  1880. 
Afterward  Sr.  Mary  Blanche,  R.I.P.,  1892. 


110 


CHAPTER  NINE 

St.  Xavier  Alumnae  Association.  "Bygone 
Hours,"  Alumnae  poem  by  Ria  Moore  Butler. 
The  Golden  Mile  post  in  Chicago,  1896.  The 
Alumnae  in  charge  of  the  celebration.  De- 
scription of  the  new  Academy  at  Forty-ninth 
street.    "Alma  Mater" — Poem  by  Clo'  Keogh. 


CHAPTER  NINE 

Although  St.  Xavier's  had  grown  wonderfully  in 
strength  and  numbers  it  was  not  until  1887  that  an 
Alumnae  Association  was  formed.  Some  of  the  former 
graduates  who  were  present  at  the  closing  exercises  in 
June  of  that  year  held  a  meeting  to  organize.  By  accla- 
mation Miss  Mary  Fox — ^now  Mrs.  E.  B.  Clarke — ^was 
appointed  temporary  manager  and  Miss  Mary  Farrell 
her  assistant. 

The  first  meeting  of  the  Alumnae  occurred  Oct.  30, 
1887,  corner  of  Twenty-Ninth  Street  and  Wabash 
Avenue.  The  study  hall,  for  an  hour  after  all  assembled, 
was  the  scene  of  many  a  happy  greeting  between  teachers 
and  former  pupils.  At  three  o'clock  the  president.  Miss 
Mary  Fox,  called  the  assembly  to  order  and  a  most 
enjoyable  program  was  presented,  as  follows : 

"Decoration  Day,"  original  poem .  Miss  L.  C.  Kehoe 

Music,  piano Miss  M.  Higgins 

Recitation Miss  S.  Hickey 

Music,  vocal Miss  M.  Walsh 

"True  Heroism,"  original  poem 

Miss  Lily  Sandmeyer 

Music,  piano Mrs.  J.  C.  Robinson 

"Our  Alumnae,"  original  poem 

Miss  M.  Agnes  O'Brien 

Music,  vocal Miss  G.  Higgins 

"Our  Sunbeams,  essay Mrs.  J.  Larkin 

Recitation Miss  N.  O'Brien 

Music,  vocal Miss  J.  Greene 

Recitation Miss  N.  Cahill 

"Florence  Nightingale,"  essay Miss  A.  Cleary 

Chorus Class  of  1888 

113 


SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

After  the  entertainment  a  dainty  lucheon  was  served 
at  which  the  customary  toasts  were  proposed  and 
responded  to.  A  business  meeting  was  then  called  and 
Decoration  Day  chosen  as  the  annual  Alumnae  day  for 
the  Association.  In  the  course  of  time  it  was  found 
inconvenient  for  some  to  be  present  on  that  day  and  it 
was  changed  to  the  last  Saturday  in  October  of  each  year. 

OUR  ALUMNAE 

Our  friends  all  thought  it  rather  a  pity, 
And  strangers  said  it  was  not  witty, 
That  St.  Xavier's  pupils,  tried  and  true. 
And  always  keeping  good  in  view. 
Had  not  formed  an  Alumnae. 

Our  Mater  at  length  her  children  invited. 
And  all  the  warm  hearts  were  truly  delighted; 
With  pleasure  we  came  to  the  dear  old  place. 
And  greeting  each  well-remembered  face 
Commenced  to  form  an  Alumnae. 

Pro's  and  con's  we  quickly  went  through ; 
The  pro's  v/ere  many — con's  but  few; 
And  here  today  we  proudly  stand, 
Members  of  the  St.  Xavier's  band — 
A  true  and  loyal  Alumnae. 

May  we  not  call  ourselves  the  flowers 
Culled  from  Mater's  virgin  bowers? 
Some  are  lilies,  some  are  roses — 
Just  "for  short"  we'll  say  we're  posies 
United  to  form  the  Alumnae. 

Some  of  our  band  heard  the  Savior's  call, 
As  they  leisurely  paced  fair  girlhood's  hall ; 
He  whispered  to  them  His  secrets  so  pure. 
The  pleasures  of  earth  they  could  not  endure. 
They'll  surely  pray  for  the  Alumnae. 

114 


SAINT  XAVIER'S— CHICAGO 

Then  other  flowers  by  mortals  v/ere  sought- 
No  buds  fairer  than  these  they  thought; 
And  well  do  they  practice  the  noble  art 
Of  training  each  fair,  tho'  fragile,  heart. 
For  St.  Xavier's  future  Alumnae. 

Still  other  flowers  take  an  active  part 
In  the  fair  world's  great  and  busy  mart ; 
Each  one  lovingly  year  after  year, 
Sowing  the  seed  received  while  here — 
Now  helping  to  form  an  Alumnae. 

Oh !  welcome.  Mater,  your  flowers,  we  pray, 
For  wraps  of  care  we've  laid  away ; 
Know  you  why  we  choose  this  day 
To  make  it  one  of  festive  lay? 

Because  we  are  your  Alumnae. 

Old  Father  Time  we'll  now  indict, 
Unless  he  turns  his  wheel  just  right; 
For  if  he  should  happen  here — beware! 
He'll  make  us  think  of  outside  care, 
And  not  of  our  Alumnae. 

We  do  not  want  him  here  in  the  way, 
As  we  are  school  girls  just  for  today; 
Sweet  Memory's  dew  for  nectar  we'll  sup, 
And  take  it  from  a  dainty  cup — 

The  love-lit  cup  of  the  Alumnae. 

Now,  dear  companions,  whate'er  betide, 
We  know  each  one  will  feel  a  pride 
In  v/orking  heart  and  soul  together. 
Through  wind  and  rain  and  stormy  weather. 
To  have  a  famous  Alumnae. 

115 


SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

For  no  matter  how  we  now  may  take  it, 
Our  Alumnae  will  be  whatever  we  make  it ; 
And  whoever  detracts  our  dear  Alma  Mater, 
Reflects  alike  on  her  every  daughter. 
Long  live  our  young  Alumnae! 

— Agnes  O'Brien,  Alumna. 

WHAT  EXPERIENCE  COSTS 

A  Paper  Read  at  the  Alumnae  Meeting  of  1889 

It  may  seem  presumptuous  in  me,  at  the  outset,  to 
array  my  experience  against  those  of  many  of  my 
audience  who  are  wiser,  if  not  much  older,  than  myself ; 
but  I  will  plead  in  extenuation  that  perhaps  the  variety 
and  also  the  novelty  of  some  of  the  battles,  of  which  I 
bear  the  scars,  may  serve  to  point  a  moral  or  warn  some 
adventuresome  young  spirit  of  the  whirlpool  towards 
which  she  is  drifting.  Although  I  have  an  abiding  faith 
in  the  present  and  future  happiness  of  those  who  have 
"chosen  the  better  part,"  I  do  not  wish  even  to  imply 
that  I  am  a  renegade  to  the  army  of  those  who  think 
"marriage  is  a  failure."  It  is  nothing  of  the  sort ;  a  con- 
tented wife  and  mother  is  one  of  the  happiest,  most 
enviable  beings  in  existence. 

I  concede  that  it  is  not  so  easy  to  save  one's  soul,  sub- 
ject to  all  the  temptations  that  beset  us  on  every  side; 
but  I  believe  that  the  battle  bravely  fought  will  merit  a 
reward  worth  striving  for,  no  matter  what  may  be  our 
station  in  life.  For  this  is  so  busy  a  world  our  youth, 
which  we  can  neither  purchase  nor  retain  by  prayer  or 
possessions,  is  dancing  away  from  us — eluding,  like  a 
will-o'-the-wisp,  all  our  efforts  to  chain  it  to  our  chariot 
wheels. 

Have  you  not  often  paused  to  ask  yourself,  "Is  it  pos- 
sible that  I,  who  am  now  so  full  of  health  and  vigor,  and 
whose  very  existence  is  seemingly  a  necessity  to  many, 

116 


SAINT  XAVIER'S— CHICAGO 

will  in  a  few  fleeting  years  be  a  forgotten  atom  of  the 
universe?"  A  sad,  sober  reflection,  is  it  not?  But  some- 
times we  need  these  sober  reflections ;  they  serve  to  keep 
us  in  check,  for,  in  spite  of  the  pessimists,  this  is 
a  beautiful  world  of  ours,  and  life  is  worth  living.  What 
a  storm  I  might  raise  about  my  devoted  head,  just  at 
present  when  the  question  is  being  agitated  far  and  wide 
by  the  advocates  of  a  short  day  of  toil  and  some  days  of 
rest  and  recreation,  should  I  solemnly  avow  that  I  have 
often  fervently  wished  that  the  day  was  thirty-two  hours 
long;  if  you  will  indulge  me  with  your  patience,  I  shall 
try  to  explain. 

Looking  back  twelve  years  (I  am  glad  I  have  changed 
my  name,  twelve  years  sounds  so  very,  very  long)  to  the 
time  when  the  class  of  '77  was  budding  into  prominence — 
and,  by  the  way,  some  unkind  frost  must  have  nipped  the 
buds,  as  none  of  us  have  blossomed  into  fame — it  seems 
but  yesterday  when  I  used  to  think  and  feel  that  the 
thought  was  worth  publishing:  "Was  anything  ever  so 
hard  as  to  leave  a  cozy  dream  at  5 :30  A.M.,  especially 
when  there  were  icicles  on  the  thermometer,  and  the  mer- 
cury had  no  perceptible  pulse?"  Memory  now  lends  a 
music  that  reality  failed  to  find  in  Mother  Agatha's  exhor- 
tation at  the  hour  5 :30  A.M. — "Let  us  bless  the  Lord."  I 
expect  to  do  penance  sometime  for  the  many  times  I  failed 
to  respond.  I  think  now  if  I  could  retire  at  8 :00  P.M.,  and 
compose  body  and  soul  as  then,  my  responsive  "Thanks 
be  to  God"  would  penetrate  the  Pearly  Gates  with  its 
fervor.    Now  how  great  the  contrast ! 

At  8:00  P.M.  my  labor  is  just  commencing,  for  as  the 
hands  of  the  clock  fly  (I  used  to  say  drag)  around  to  that 
hour  three  pairs  of  weary,  blinking  eyes  eloquently  testify 
that  the  flowers  have  long  since  folded  their  petals  till 
sunlight  shall  bid  them  awake.  But  babies  differ  from 
flowers  in  many  ways.  I  never  could  induce  mine,  by 
precept  or  example,  to  wait  for  the  sunlight.  After 
tucking  the  babies  comfortably  asleep,  I  promise  myself 

117 


SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

the  evening — I  shall  practice  a  little,  perhaps,  or  read 
that  interesting  article  in  the  magazine  for  which  I  have 
been  waiting;  or  I  should  like  to  go  out  this  evening  to 
the  theater,  or  to  make  a  call  which  is  due ;  but  alas !  why 
do  I  mock  myself? 

In  the  midst  of  my  indecision  a  ghostly  little  form 
appears  at  my  elbow  and  tearfully  inquires,  "Py  did  oo 
teal  away  when  I  teeped?"  It  takes  one-half  hour  to 
smooth  the  ruffled  plumage ;  then,  shortly  after  the  peace 
is  restored,  a  piping  soprano  is  heard  to  announce,  "I  'ont 
take  no  drink  'cept  from  my  manna."  That  flattery  is 
very  fetching,  and  so  I  arise,  like — or  rather  unlike — a 
martyr,  and  attend  to  that,  while  nurse  stands  by  helpless 
and  deposed.  I  finally  conclude,  as  time  has  flown,  we 
will  remain  at  home;  decide  not  to  practice  in  order  to 
assist  Morpheus,  and  bury  myself  fathoms  deep  in  some 
interesting  reading.  Very  soon  a  sound  breaks  the  still- 
ness that  causes  me — even  though  you  may  be  inclined 
to  think  it  a  physical  impossibility — to  mount  the  stairs 
in  pairs.  The  sound  is  a  voice  that  forms  no  special 
phrase,  but  when  compared  to  anything  else  with  which 
I  am  acquainted  would  drown  the  eloquence  of  a  Demos- 
thenes. 0,  yes;  only  the  baby  is  awake.  Most  of  my 
hearers  can  congratulate  themselves  that  they  have  not 
the  most  reomote  conception  of  all  that  means. 

The  chief  trouble  with  my  baby  is  that  when  it  is  once 
thoroughly  awake  the  curiosity  which  is  characteristic  of 
its  sex  prompts  it  to  remain  so;  words  fail  to  describe 
the  amount  of  mental  anguish  attributable  to  our  wee 
mite  of  a  girl.  To  illustrate  the  case  in  point :  The  hour 
is  1 :00  A.M.,  baby  has  been  furnishing  a  concert  consist- 
ing of  a  series  of  solos  more  or  less  appreciated  by  its 
audience,  according  to  their  intensity,  gradually  arriving 
at  such  a  pitch  that  the  household,  in  the  fervor  of  enthu- 
siasm, is  soon  assembled  in  our  room ;  dramatis  personae, 
consisting  of  the  star  vocalist;  grandpa,  who  if  not 
exactly  in  evening  dress  appears  in  very  early  morning 

118 


SAINT  XAVIER'S— CHICAGO 

costume ;  pater  familias,  who  is  vainly  trying  to  establish 
an  authority  with  the  tiny  tyrant ;  the  servants ;  and,  last 
and  truly  least,  the  feminine  head  of  the  household,  who 
is  wildly  begging  for  the  peppermint  bottle.  Willing 
hands  supply  her  wants  with  a  substitute  of  ipecac, 
v/liich,  though  designed  for  totally  different  purposes, 
goes  the  way  the  good  peppermint  should  go.  Grandpa 
gravely  remarks,  "The  child  must  be  burning  up  with 
fever." 

Cy  a  stupendous  effort  of  the  intellect,  nurse  announces 
it  must  be  colic,  which  relieves  everyone — but  the  baby. 
She  keeps  right  along  on  the  same  old  key,  with  occasional 
discords.  But  the  knowledge  of  a  disease  is  part  of  the 
remedy,  and,  peace  being  restored,  I  breathe  again;  and 
so  it  is,  ad  infinitum,  until  I  think  that  if  anyone  were  to 
awaken  me  suddenly  after  sleep  had  found  me,  aside  from 
the  danger  of  such  a  proceeding,  I  should  cry  out,  "Have 
mercy  on  me — do!" 

Possibly  my  description  would  shock  some  of  our  me- 
thodical matrons,  who  cannot  imagine  such  a  state  of 
affairs.  However,  it  has  the  merit  of  being  truthful  at 
least,  and  suggestions  as  to  amendments  will  be  humbly 
and  thankfully  received.  I  simply  wish  to  explain  to  the 
girls  who  are  now  occupying  the  places  which  we  once 
filled  that  what  they  feel  a  hardship  at  school  pales  by 
comparison  with  the  reality  of  such  experience.  Many  of 
us,  while  at  school,  considered  ourselves  in  a  sort  of  chrys- 
alis state  of  development ;  the  world  was  an  untried  field, 
and  we  were  longing  to  test  the  strength  of  our  wings. 
Someone  has  said,  "The  only  way  to  succeed  is  to  be  com- 
monplace ;  once  attempt  to  soar  and  you  find  yourself  the 
target  for  all  the  random  shots ;  the  toad  dives  beneath  the 
water,  and  then  escapes  the  fate  of  the  bird  who  flies  on 
high  and  is  soon  brought  to  earth ;  yet,  who  would  not  be 
born  with  the  daring  of  the  bird  rather  than  the  caution 
of  the  toad  ?" 

119 


SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

Lest  there  be  any  young  ladies  who  in  listening  to 
me  may  become  discouraged  at  the  picture  drawn,  and 
may  thus  feel  disposed  to  swell  the  ranks  of  the  Novitiate, 
I  should  like  to  impress  them  with  the  fact  that  experi- 
ences differ.  Do  not  think  that  the  life  of  the  matron 
consists  of  one  long  struggle  with  the  infant  class ;  there 
are  duties  to  be  performed,  it  is  true,  and  which,  bravely 
accomplished,  will  insure  a  reward  of  content  and  happi- 
ness, so  that  when  our  eyes  are  turned  away  from  the 
trials  of  life  toward  the  goal  for  which  we  all  are  striving 
we  will  feel  "There's  a  divinity  that  shapes  our  ends, 
rough  hew  them  how  we  may." 

Kittie  Buckley  Burke,  '77. 

BY-GONE  HOURS 

Who  has  not  spent  some  silent  hours  in  dreams  of  long 

ago, 
And  gazed  on  memory's  treasured  page  through  tears 

that  needs  must  flow  ? 
Who  has  not  passed  again  to  youth  and  childhood  light 

and  free, 
To  get  a  glimpse  of  home  and  friends,  and  times  that 

used  to  be? 

I,  too,  have  had  these  happy  hours,  when  dreams  would 

o'er  me  steal — 
When  olden  times  would  seem  to  come  to  make  me  know 

and  feel 
The  scenes  of  by-gone  hours  and  days  in  quiet  study 

spent. 
Wherein  I  learned  the  rule  of  life  and  what  obedience 

meant. 

There  were  hours  and  days  of  golden  hue  when  duty's 

work  was  done, 
When   burdened   hearts  and  tired  brains  a  smile   of 

pleasure  won. 

120 


SAINT  XAVIER'S— CHICAGO 

But  all  was  not  elysian  bliss ;  "No  rose  without  a  thorn" — 
A  school  girl's  life,  like  earthy  things,  in  sorrow  must 
be  borne. 

We  all  enjoyed  our  daily  life  in  helping  one  another; 
What  one  would  find  too  hard  to  do  we'd  kindly  do 

together. 
Thus  passed  along  those  happy  years,  in  quiet,  sweet 

seclusion ; 
Nothing   came   to   mar   our   bliss   or   cause   the   least 

confusion. 

But,  true  to  nature  and  womankind,  we  could  not  be 

contented ; 
Our    minds    in    search    of    better    things    ambitiously 

fomented. 
We  wished  to  know  and  learn  the  truths  that  lay  within 

our  reach — 
To  clasp  the  hand  of  wisdom  in  the  lessons  she  might 

teach. 

A  happy  band  we  always  were — you  see  our  hopes  were 

weighty ; 
We  expected  then  to  graduate  in  eventful  eighteen  eighty. 
So,  bent  on  seeking  better  things,  we  soon  explored  the 

skies. 
And  found  in  our  astronomy  a  pleasure  and  surprise. 

Bright  spectres  of  ethereal  form  from  Heaven's  dome 

descended — 
Orion's  dogs  and  Pleiades  in  strange  confusion  blended. 
Our  thoughts  and  dreams  like  ancient  themes  which  in 

disorder  rank, 
Like  Ptolemy  displayed  the  earth  suspended  on  a  crank. 

Inspired  by  Nature's  wondrous  laws,  which  always  har- 
monize. 

We  saw  that  Science  rules  the  mind,  and  fits  it  to  be 
wise. 

121 


SISTEKS  OF  MERCY 

We  saw  that  gentle  womankind,  rising  from  a  woman's 

doom, 
Ought  to  know  by  instinct  blind  her  paint  brush  from  her 

broom. 

However  far  above  this  world  Romantic  spirits  go, 
There  always  comes  a  something  to  turn  their  thoughts 

below. 
Thus,  from  the  great  celestial  sphere  we  turned  our  eyes 

to  earth, 
And  other  dreams  and  visions  in  varied  forms  took  birth. 

We  oft  awoke  the  slumbering  strength  of  Nature's  stores 
and  treasures, 

Though  nervous  hands  and  trembling  skill  performed  the 
brilliant  pleasures. 

Those  days  we  spent  at  Chemistry  were  hard  on  timid 
students, 

Who  deemed  such  pestilential  odors  as  positive  impru- 
dence. 

Some  trembled  for  their  auburn  curls  that  soon  might 
help  the  blaze, 

And  bathed  their  tender  lily  hands  for  long  succeeding 
days. 

But  what  will  not  some  women  do  to  cause  a  great  com- 
motion ? 

Notwithstanding  timid  hearts  we  longed  for  an  explosion. 

Yet  Fate  had  better  things  in  store  for  school  girls  such 

as  we; 
Wise  teachers  thought   domestic   life  more   useful   yet 

would  be. 
So  from  the  study  of  the  stars  sweet  poetry  and  prose, 
We  learned  to  mend — not  broken  hearts — but  worn-out, 

holy  hose. 

122 


SAINT  XAVIER'S— CHICAGO 

Thus  passed  the  year  m  learning  well  the  depths  of 
wisdom's  ways; 

Its  brightness  shall  illumine  the  scenes  of  other  days. 

And  in  the  far-off  future,  that  shines  (  with  borrowed 
rays), 

May  we  e'er  retain  the  golden  truths  we  learned  in  by- 
gone days. 

May  we  climb  the  hills  of  knowledge  with  untiring, 
patient  feet, 

Triumphant  yet  to  stand  where  Nature  and  the  Super- 
natural meet. 

Ria  Moore  Butler,  '80. 

Amongst  the  pupils  of  the  Academy,  several  non- 
Catholics  were  always  in  attendance,  including  Jewesses ; 
even  at  the  present  day  many  parents  prefer  sending 
their  daughters  to  the  Sisters,  knowing  the  moral  atmos- 
phere is  conducive  to  the  well-being  of  their  girls. 

It  is  related  that  Lord  Byron  wrote  thus  to  a  friend: 
"I  have  sent  my  daughter,  Allegra,  to  a  convent  of  the 
Romana,  at  much  expense  for  her  education.  It  is  my 
wish  that  she  should  be  a  Roman  Catholic,  which  religion 
I  look  upon  as  the  best,  as  it  assuredly  is  the  oldest  of 
the  various  branches  of  Christianity." 

After  leaving  school  many  of  the  girls  write  to  the 
Sisters  asking  counsel  in  times  of  difficulties,  and  gen- 
erally carry  out  directions  to  the  letter. 

Miss  Cynthia  W.,  a  pupil  of  the  '50s,  was  a  very  bright, 
happy  girl  at  school,  and  it  was  well  she  could  not  foresee 
the  future.  Some  time  after  leaving  she  was  married  in 
the  South.  Her  father  was  devotedly  attached  to  her, 
and  apparently  also  her  stepmothers,  of  whom  she  had 
two,  as  the  first  had  died  leaving  two  girls.  The  second 
one  had  a  boy,  and  then  the  father  passed  away,  leaving 
an  equal  amount  to  each  of  the  four  children  ($75,000). 

123 


SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

Then  it  was  that  the  true  spirit  of  her  last  stepmother 
cropped  out.  She  wanted  to  break  the  will,  trying  to 
prove  that  Cynthia  (now  Mrs.  W.  C.  T.)  was  an  illegiti- 
mate child,  in  order  to  get  her  share  for  her  own  boy. 
Now,  this  was  new  to  broken-hearted  Cynthia,  but  her 
husband  was  such  a  good,  kind  man,  he  assured  her  it 
made  no  difference  to  him,  and  that  if  all  the  world 
turned  against  her  he  never  would.  So  she  was  made 
doubly  happy,  as  the  selfish  woman  lost  the  suit  and  had 
all  her  trouble  for  nothing. 

Cynthia  wrote  to  Mother  Genevieve,  telling  all  about 
her  troubles  and  asking  for  advice,  which  was  freely 
given,  and  brought  her  safely  through  the  trial. 

TRUE  HEROISM 

Every  nation  has  its  heroes,  men  who  are  both  good  and 

brave ; 
Men,  who  gave  their  lives  and  fortunes,  native  lands  and 

homes  to  save. 
History  gives  them  noble  places,  traced  with  care  on 

every  page — 
Kings,  who  ruled  o'er  mighty  nations — Queens,  the  honor 

of  their  age. 
Men  have  lived  who  loved  not  honor  as  they  worked  for 

God  and  man; 
Duty  never  found  them,  wanting — they  were  foremost  in 

the  van. 
They  were  heroes — God's  true  soldiers — and  their  names 

are  found  above; 
In  the  Book  of  Life  they're  written  by  the  angels  of  God's 

love. 

Ranked  amognst  these  bravest  soldiers,  there  is  one  who 

gave  his  life. 
Rather  than  to  God  be  faithless — ^thus  he  conquered  in 

the  strife. 

124 


SAINT  XAVIER'S— CHICAGO 

Wenceslaus,  the  German  Emperor,  of  Bohemia's  land  the 

bane, 
Wished  to  know  the  secret  feelings  of  his  wife,  the 

Empress  Jane. 
Tho'  he  passionately  loved  her,  knowing  well  her  virtues 

rare. 
Yet  he  listened  to  the  tempter,  urging  on  to  deeds  unfair. 
Now,   St.   John   of   Nepomucky   was   confessor  to   the 

Queen — 
"Ah!  I  have  it!"  said  the  King.    "He  shall  tell  me  all,  I 

ween!" 

"Tell  the  Chaplain  I  would  see  him  ere  the  sun  shall  set 

today!" 
And  the  Emperor  never  doubted  but  the  saint  must  him 

obey. 
"Mighty  King,  I  bow  before  thee.  Thou  commandest — 

I  obey! 
Peace  be  with  thee  now  and  ever,  heavenly  blessings  light 

thy  way." 
"Faithful  John!   thou'st  done  thy  duty,  and   I  would 

reward  thee  well — 
Riches,  honors,  I  will  give  thee,  if  to  me  one  thing  thou'lt 

tell; 
Jane,  my  Queen,  in  thee  confideth,  since  thou  art  con- 
fessor here ; 
I  would  know  her  feelings  toward  me,  whether  fraught 

with  love  or  fear!" 

"Tell  thee  what  the  Queen  hath  told  me  in  tribunal  of  the 

Lord? 
Under  seal  so  truly  sacred  that  it  needs  no  better  guard?" 
"Yes!  I  wish  it,  and  my  will  is  law  supreme  in  this  fair 

land! 
Tell  me  all,  yes,  all  thou  knowest,  and  thou'lt  sit  on  my 

right  hand !" 

125 


SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

"Mighty  one,  forgive  my  boldness !  There's  a  greater  King 

than  thou, 
And  to  Him  I  owe  allegiance — I  must  keep  my  sacred 

vow. 
All  things  else  that  thou  commandest  I  will  ever  try  to 

do, 
But  to  God  I  must  be  faithful,  never  to  Him  prove 

untrue !" 

''One  last  chance,  my  man,  I'll  give  thee — Speak!  and  all 

will  yet  be  well ; 
But  refuse  and  death  alone  shall  free  thee  from  a  felon's 

cell." 
"Death  to  me  presents  no  terror — it  would  only  break 

my  chain ; 
Wealth  and  honor,  life  and  pleasure  could  not  Heaven 

for  me  gain." 
"Ho  there!    Guards!    come,  take  this  traitor!    Tie  him 

quickly,  hands  and  feet! 
Cast  him  headlong  in  the  river!   I'll  not  brook  this  cool 

defeat!" 
Wencelaus  that  night  was  reveling,  time  was  creeping  on 

apace — 
Suddenly  the  Empress  entered,  terror  pictured  on  her 

face. 

"See  the  light  that's  yonder  gleaming,  on  the  river  dark 

and  wide! 
See  the  people  flocking  thither,  like  a  great  and  angry 

tide!" 
There,  upon  the  river's  bosom  shone  the  holy  martyred 

one. 
Casting  rays  of  such  refulgence  that  they  dazzled  like  the 

sun. 

126 


SAINT  XAVIER'S— CHICAGO 

Fright  rushed  in  and  took  possession  of  the  Emperor's 

citadel, 
And  he  (led  from  out  his  palace,  lest  the  people  would 

rebel. 
Knew  he  well  his  crime  was  heinous,  and  he  feared  his 

country's  ire ; 
But  he  faced  a  foe  more  cruel  in  his  conscience'  lasting 

fire. 

Lillie  M.  Sandmeyer,  '87. 

The  Golden  Mile  post  of  the  Order  of  Mercy  in  Chicago 
was  looked  forward  to  with  great  interest.  The  friends 
of  the  Order  hailed  Sept.  24,  1896,  as  the  first  grand 
occasion  on  which  to  show  their  appreciation  of  the 
Sisters*  services  and  untiring  zeal  in  the  cause  of  educa- 
tion, as  well  as  their  labor  in  behalf  of  suffering 
humanity. 

The  following  extract  from  a  paper  of  that  time  shows 
how  delightfully  the  day  was  kept: 

"The  program  was  in  charge  of  the  Institute's  organ- 
ized Alumnae,  about  two  hundred  in  number,  with  Mrs. 
K.  Buckley  Burke,  president.  The  day  was  opened  with 
High  Mass  by  Archbishop  Feehan.  The  afternoon  was 
devoted  to  Benediction  services  and  an  excellent  program 
in  the  assembly  hall.  The  religious  services  were  sol- 
emnly impressive,  as  in  the  subdued  light  of  the  Chapel 
over  two  hundred  black  and  white  veiled  nuns  knelt  in 
silent  prayer,  while  the  organ  rolled  its  music  heaven- 
v/ard  and  sweet  incense  filled  the  air. 

After  Benediction  the  Alumnae  marched  to  the 
assembly  hall,  where  the  Archbishop  and  clergy  were  in 
waiting. 

As  the  former  filed  up  the  center  aisle  they  sang  an 
inspiring  processional  hymn,  the  composition  of  Mrs.  E. 
Clowry  Keogh.  Then  followed  the  presentation  of  a 
handsome  floral  model  of  the  new  brougham,  which 
awaited  the  good  pleasure  of  the  Sisters. 

127 


;  SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

The  presentation  was  made  by  the  president,  always 
loyal  in  her  devotion  to  her  Alma  Mater.  Rev.  Mother 
Genevieve  responded  feelingly,  then  followed  an  eloquent 
address  by  Archbishop  Feehan.  The  orchestra  gave  a 
number  of  classic  selections,  its  knowledge  of  music  hav- 
ing been  gained  in  the  Institution  which  it  was  honoring. 

In  the  meantime  a  tempting  repast  had  been  spread 
in  the  parlors  for  the  clergy  and  the  members  of  the 
Alumnae  Association.  A  simple  glance  at  the  numerous 
friends  and  pupils  in  the  gathering  was  sufficient  in  itself 
to  give  evidence  of  the  good  work  accomplished  during 
the  fifty  years  which  intervened  since  the  Sisters  first 
arrived  in  Chicago. 

The  Academy  was  transformed  into  a  veritable  floral 
bower,  and  the  lavender  and  gold,  colors  of  the  Alumnae, 
were  most  artistically  blended  with  the  frail  smilax  and 
gorgeous  evergreen. 

Beside  the  brougham  presented  by  the  Alumnae,  the 
gifts  were  numerous  and  handsome,  including  a  set  of 
gold  vestments  from  His  Grace,  Archbishop  Feehan;  a 
gold  missal  stand,  from  Rev.  M.  Catherine  Feehan;  im- 
mense chandeliers  for  Chapel,  from  Mr.  Hudson;  six 
golden  candlesticks,  from  Mrs.  C.  Keeler;  a  golden  cruci- 
fix with  precious  stones,  from  W.  J.  Feeley;  a  golden 
thurible,  from  Mr.  J.  J.  Larkin ;  a  golden  sanctuary  lamp, 
from  Mrs.  Wolford;  a  large  statue  of  St.  Joseph,  Dr.  T. 
Guerin;  fifty  dollars  in  gold,  from  Rev.  E.  A.  Kelly;  the 
same  amount  from  Mr.  Thos.  Brennan  and  J.  R.  Walsh; 
gold  teaspoons.  Sisters  of  Mercy,  Grand  Rapids,  Mich.; 
a  beautiful  set  of  vestments  and  candlesticks,  from  Sis- 
ters of  Mercy,  Davenport,  Iowa,  and  many  others. 

At  length  the  time  came  when  a  new  Academy  was  not 
only  desirable  but  a  real  necessity.  Five  acres  remained 
of  the  fifty  at  Forty-Ninth  Street,  within  one  block  of 
Cottage  Grove  Avenue,  and  it  was  finally  decided  to 
utilize  this  piece  of  ground  for  a  new  building,  instead 

128 


SAINT  XAVIER'S— CHICAGO 

of  purchasing  in  another  locality.  The  nearest  Church 
was  Holy  Angels  on  Oakwood  Boulevard,  near  Forty- 
First  Street,  which  made  it  seem  inconvenient  for  daily 
Mass,  but  as  Mother  Mary  Genevieve  always  said,  "God 
will  provide";  and  He  did  provide,  for  a  new  parish — 
Corpus  Christi — was  formed  and  matters  were  simplified. 

The  Academy  was  commenced  in  1899;  but  in  1900  a 
strike  amongst  the  workmen  caused  a  long  delay.  At 
first  it  was  intended  to  erect  only  one  wing,  although  the 
foundation  for  the  whole  building  was  constructed  at 
once.  Gradually  Mother  Mary  Genevieve  saw  the  neces- 
sity of  bringing  the  whole  design  to  completion,  and  it 
was  wisely  done. 

The  following  extract  from  a  Chicago  paper  gives  a 
good  idea  of  the  work  (Nov.  4,  1900) : 

ST.  XAVIER'S  ABOUT  READY 

"The  magnificent  new  building  now  approaching  com- 
pletion at  the  northwest  comer  of  Evans  Avenue  and 
Forty-Ninth  Street,  for  the  accommodation  of  the  St. 
Xavier  Academy,  was  from  the  commencement  solely  the 
undertaking  of  the  Sisters  of  Mercy,  and  they  received 
very  little,  if  any,  assistance  as  the  great  work  pro- 
gressed. 

"The  imposing  structure,  as  it  stands — its  exterior  is 
completed — represents  their  bravery,  devotion  and  faith. 

"A  year  or  more  ago  they  found  that  their  fine  building 
at  Wabash  Avenue  and  Twenty-Ninth  Street  was  much 
too  small  for  the  vastly  increased  and  ever-increasing 
patronage  of  the  Academy.  The  question  then  was, 
whether  the  Sisters  of  Mercy  should  turn  away  pupils  and 
in  part  abandon  the  educational  field,  or  make  another 
venture  and  erect  a  new  building  that  should  seem  large 
enough  to  satisfy  all  demands  for  space  by  pupils  for 
many  years  to  come.  Everybody  knew  it  would  not  be 
like  them  to  abandon  any  part  of  the  field,  and  hence  no- 

129 


SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

body  was  surprised  when  they  began  on  the  new  immense 
work.  They  have  managed  their  own  finances  and  have 
been  able  to  put  $300,000  into  the  building  before  it  is 
finished. 

"It  was  hoped  last  winter  to  have  the  structure  finished 
and  ready  for  occupancy  in  May  last,  but  this  hope  proved 
delusive;  next  it  was  promised  to  have  it  ready  to  be 
occupied  this  autumn,  but  again  there  was  disappoint- 
ment. The  troubles  in  the  building  trades  so  kept  back 
work  that  the  building  will  hardly  be  finished  much 
before  next  spring.  But  its  grand  front  is  finished,  and  in 
great  part  the  interior  also,  and  it  is  already  evident  that 
it  will  be,  after  the  expenditure  of  comparatively  little 
more  labor  and  money  upon  it,  one  of  the  finest  structures 
in  this  country  for  educational  purposes. 

"The  immense  building — it  is  270  feet  front  by  175 
feet  deep — stands  in  the  middle  of  a  five-acre  tract,  which 
for  many  years  has  been  the  property  of  the  Sisters.  It 
is  all  to  be  devoted  to  the  uses  and  pleasures  of  the  Acad- 
emy and  its  pupils.  The  main  floor  of  the  building  has, 
besides  parlors,  reception  rooms  and  music  rooms,  thirty 
other  rooms  for  classes  in  the  various  branches  of  school 
learning.  The  above-ground  basement,  which  extends 
under  the  whole  building,  is  finished  in  a  practical  manner 
for  the  numerous  industrial  needs  of  the  establishment. 
The  immense  dining  rooms  are  also  in  this  first  floor. 

"The  old  Academy  building  is  at  present  full  to  over- 
flowing with  pupils  and  scores  are  waiting  to  enter  the 
Academy  as  soon  as  the  new  building  is  completed  and 
occupied.  Mother  Mary  Genevieve  is  at  the  head  of  the 
St.  Xavier  Academy  and  she  has  conducted  the  new  build- 
ing enterprise  in  all  its  stages. 

"'This  Academy  does  a  great  deal  more  than  teach  and 
care  for  its  own  immediate  pupils.  For  this  work  thirty 
teachers  are  employed.  But  there  are  150  other  teachers 
in  its  service  and  these  are  employed  in  teaching  nine 

130 


SAINT  XAVIER'S— CHICAGO 

different  parochial  schools.  The  largest  of  these  has 
1,300  pupils  and  the  smallest  400.  In  all  the  number  of 
children  taught  in  and  by  the  Academy  is  about  9,000. 

"Mother  Mary  Genevieve  is  content  with  claiming  that 
the  quality  of  the  instruction  given  by  St.  Xavier's  Sisters 
in  the  parochial  schools  is  equal  to  that  given  in  the  public 
grammar  schools.  The  Academy  also  furnishes  teachers 
and  supervision  for  the  parochial  high  school  and  from 
this  the  graduates,  or  so  many  as  choose,  pass  to  the 
public  normal  school  without  question.  One  member  of 
the  Board  of  Education,  who  is  not  a  Catholic  and  is  for 
other  reasons  an  impartial  judge,  is  authority  for  saying 
that  the  graduates  of  these  parochial  schools  are  as  good 
in  their  examinations  at  the  normal  school  as  are  the 
graduates  of  the  public  school. 

"While  another  m.ember  of  the  Board  of  Education, 
Thomas  Brennan,  claims  that  the  parochial  instruction 
shows  in  many  of  the  examinations  to  be  the  better. 

"The  steady  aim  of  the  St,  Xavier  Academy  for  long 
years  past  has  been  to  be  itself  a  model,  high-class  literary 
institution,  where  the  best  instruction  should  be  offered 
amid  inspiring  surroundings.  The  course  of  study  is  the 
usual  one  in  institutions  of  its  kind,  Protestant  as  well  as 
Catholic.  Mother  Mary  Genevieve  believes  there  is  none 
anywhere  more  comprehensive  and  thorough." 

The  New  World  of  Sept.  24,  1901,  records  the  dedica- 
tion as  follows: 

"The  dedication  Tuesday  morning  of  the  new  St. 
Xaviers  Academy,  which  is  also  the  Novitiate  and  Mother 
House  of  the  Sisters  of  Mercy,  will  be  a  memorable  event 
in  the  history  of  Catholicism  in  Chicago,  evidencing  as  it 
does  the  marvelous  success  which  has  attended  every 
effort  of  this  noble  body  of  women,  since  their  first  rep- 
resentative came  to  bless  the  city  some  fifty-five  years 
ago.  The  new  building  is  one  of  the  largest  religious 
institutions    in    the    West,  and    to    Mother    Genevieve 

131 


SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

Granger,  the  beloved  Mother  Superioress  of  the  Order  for 
over  thirty  years,  does  credit  belong  for  the  many  modern 
features  shown  in  the  construction  of  the  institution.  It 
is  pronounced  by  competent  judges  a  model  of  archi- 
tecture. 

"The  dedication  ceremonies  were  of  a  triple  nature,  it 
being  the  Feast  of  the  Order,  and  also  the  twenty-fifth 
anniversary  of  three  of  the  members  of  the  Community — 
Sisters  Mary  Michael,  Berchmans  and  Aloysius. 

"At  nine  o'clock  Tuesday  morning  Rt.  Rev.  P.  J.  Mul- 
doon,  D.D.,  Auxiliary  Bishop  of  the  Archdiocese  of 
Chicago,  preceded  by  a  large  procession  of  altar  boys  and 
the  assembled  clergy,  blessed  the  Institution,  visiting  the 
principal  rooms  and  making  a  circuit  of  all  the  corridors 
on  each  floor.  After  the  ceremony  of  dedication  was  con- 
cluded the  Mass  began;  this  was  followed  by  Solemn 
Benediction  of  the  Blessed  Sacrament,  after  which  Rev. 
Mother  Genevieve  Granger  read  the  solemn  act  of 
consecration  in  unison  with  all  the  members  of  the 
Community." 

Alma  Mater 

*'The  Teacher  in  Society-Life" 

Crude  men  they  were,  unlettered  fisher-folk, 
Those  twelve  who  listened  while  the  Master  said, 
"Go  forth  and  teach,"  and  their  untutored  lips 
Unused  to  any  but  a  ruder  speech, 
Proclaimed  that  lesson  of  sublimity, 
Which  to  the  end  of  time  in  bold  relief 
Will  stand  pre-eminent. 

And  in  those  twelve 

Christ  blest  the  teacher,  giving  as  a  meed. 

That  those  who  from  themselves  give  out  the  most, 

Shall  in  return  abundantly  be  stored. 

132 


View  of  Saint  Xavier's  Academy 
(facing  east) 


SAINT  XAVIER'S— CHICAGO 

Just  as  the  flower  ungathered  on  the  stem 
Soon  withers  and  leaves  barren  all  the  shrub, 
While  those  fresh-gathered  to  entwine  some  brow 
Seem  but  to  give  the  parent  plant  a  new  vitality. 

And  when  men  sought  a  name 

Of  honor,  love  and  deathless  fealty, 

Whose  very  sound  would  bless  and  sanctify 

That  living  fountain  which  refreshed  their  souls. 

They  called  it  Alma  Mater,  she  who  takes 

The  Mother's  place  and  nurtures  in  her  stead. 

And  so  twice  blest  the  teacher,  blest  of  God, 
And  blest  of  man.    The  one  who  stands  apart 
And  lives,  not  in  himself  alone,  but  in 
The  wealth  of  culture,  knowledge,  wisdom,  soul, 
Which  permeates  and  brightens  every  age. 
The  radiance  of  Heaven  on  this  our  earth. 

— Clo  Keogh,  Alumna. 


133 


CHAPTER  TEN 

The  Triple  Jubilee  celebrated  in  1901.  Rev. 
A.  D.  Granger,  Rev.  M.  Genevieve's  nephew, 
explains.  Most  Rev,  P.  W.  Riordan  writes 
to  the  Jubilarians.  Four  days'  celebration  on 
this  occasion.  "Golden  Jubilee" — Poem  by 
Sr.  M.  Gabriel,  of  Ottawa. 


CHAPTER  TEN 

A  most  joyous  year  for  the  Sisters  was  1901.  For 
months  they  looked  forward  to  the  closing  days  of 
November.  They  were  to  celebrate  the  Golden  Jubilee 
of  their  beloved  Superior,  Rev.  Mother  Mary  Genevieve, 
with  two  others.  Mother  Mary  Scholastica  and  Sister 
Mary  Angela.  November  13th  was  the  anniversary,  and 
on  that  morning  in  the  Convent  Chapel  at  2834  Wabash 
Avenue  Mass  was  celebrated  for  the  honored  Jubilarians 
by  the  Most  Rev.  Archbishop  Riordan,  a  life-long  friend 
who  was  obliged  to  leave  the  city  before  the  celebration 
proper,  which  did  not  take  place  until  two  weeks  later, 
because  it  was  conceded  by  all  that  Thanksgiving  vaca- 
tion would  afford  better  opportunities  to  celebrate  more 
worthily  the  great  event.  The  last  four  days  of  Novem- 
ber were  chosen,  and  truly  they  were  days  never  to  be 
forgotten.  The  festivities  were  perhaps  only  a  second- 
ary part  of  the  celebration.  The  magnificent  gift — a 
marble  altar — on  which  the  first  Holy  Mass  celebrated 
was  for  the  Jubilarians,  held  the  first  place.  This  was 
presented  by  the  Sisters  who  were  most  anxious  to  show 
their  appreciation  for  one  who  had  always  been  a  per- 
fect model  and  guide,  in  the  religious  life,  as  well  as  a 
loving,  tender  Mother.  This  thoughtfulness  on  the  part 
of  her  children  rejoiced  the  heart  of  the  gracious 
Superior,  as  well  as  those  of  the  two  religious,  who  were 
happy  to  share  both  her  joys  and  her  honors. 

The  rich  altar  rail  of  onyx  and  hammered  brass  was 
presented  by  the  Alumnae;  the  beautiful  marble  statue 
of  the  B.  V.  Mary  with  marble  altar  presented  by  Mr. 
and  Mrs.  William  Carney;  the  handsome  marble  statue 
of  St.  Joseph  with  marble  altar,  presented  by  Mr.  and 

137 


SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

Mrs.  Edward  Hudson  and  the  Golden  Chalice  given  by 
Most  Rev.  P.  W.  Riordan  together  with  the  beautiful 
Processional  Cross  by  Rev.  D.  J.  Riordan  were  gifts  high- 
ly prized  by  the  Jubilarians  and,  indeed,  by  all  the  Sis- 
ters. Many  other  costly  presents  from  various  friends 
completed  the  furnishings  of  the  sanctuary  of  the  new 
chapel. 

Many  religious  came  from  other  cities,  especially  from 
the  houses  that  claimed  the  St.  Xavier  Academy  as  the 
parent  that  had  sent  them  far  and  near,  for  the  comfort 
of  the  poor,  the  sick  and  ignorant.  Iowa,  Michigan  and 
Wisconsin  sent  contingents,  and  last,  though  not  least, 
Ottawa,  111.,  was  well  represented  presenting  amongst 
other  things  a  beautifully  illuminated  poem  on  white 
moire  antique.  The  venerable  Rev.  Mother  Patricia  and 
Mother  Mary  Bernard  of  Philadelphia  sui-prised  and  de- 
lighted every  one  by  coming  to  show  their  appreciation 
of  the  joyous  occasion. 

Many  clergymen  were  present  at  the  ceremonies, 
amongst  them  two  nephews  of  Rev.  Mother  Genevieve, 
one  of  whom,  Rev.  A.  D.  Granger,  read  a  very  eloquent 
paper  from  which  we  take  the  following  extracts : 

"It  may  be  of  interest  to  this  gathering  of  the  good 
friends  of  Rev.  Mother  Genevieve  to  know  something  of 
her  ancestry.  We  all  instinctively  look  back  with  eager 
curiosity  to  the  family  from  which  a  distinguished  mem- 
ber has  sprung.  The  reason  of  this  is  that  we  naturally 
seek  for  the  cause  of  the  effect  observed.  Again,  we 
know  that  God  generally  works  out  His  Providential 
plans  according  to  well  defined  and  well  established  laws 
in  nature.  It  is  not  by  accident  that  men  and  women  of 
superior  ability  and  virtue  appear,  here  and  there,  now 
and  then,  upon  the  great  stage  of  life.  We  shall  readily 
understand  that  the  Rev.  Mother,  whose  jubilee  we  cele- 
brate today,  had  been  chosen  from  a  race  of  humble,  but 
sturdy  believers,  to  become  an  ornament  in  the  Church. 

138 


SAINT  XAVIER'S— CHICAGO 

The  origin  of  her  family  on  this  continent  dates  back 
over  two  centuries  and  a  quarter,  to  colonial  days.  In 
the  year  1666  a  young  Protestant  Englishman,  from  Ply- 
mouth, England,  by  the  name  of  Lawrence  Granger,  hav- 
ing established  himself  in  the  French  colony  of  Port 
Royal,  Acadia  (now  Annapolis,  Nova  Scotia),  fell  in  love 
with  a  fair  Acadian  girl  (of  the  type  of  Evangeline,  we 
suppose) ,  and  married  her,  after  making  a  public  abjura- 
tion of  heresy  and  the  required  profession  of  faith  in 
Catholicity.  Of  this  happy  marriage  many  children  were 
born  and  the  family  increased  to  patriarchal  proportions 
in  that  beautiful  land  "where  the  richest  was  poor,  and 
the  poorest  lived  in  abundance,"  as  Longfellow  so  well 
expresses  it  in  his  immortal  poem. 

But  strange  are  the  ways  of  this  world,  a  dire  calam- 
ity fell  unexpectedly  upon  these  peaceful  and  happy  pop- 
ulations of  Port  Royal  and  Grand  Pre.  Political  meas- 
ures, unjust  in  the  extreme  and  cruel  beyond  expression, 
decreed  the  expulsion  of  the  Acadian  people  to  the  num- 
ber of  ten  or  fifteen  thousand  souls,  who  were  landed 
broadcast  in  the  different  ports  of  the  Atlantic  sea-shore 
and  in  the  coast  towns  of  Old  England  herself.  Charles 
Granger,  a  grandson  of  the  patriarch  Lawrence,  and  the 
great-grandfather  of  Rev.  Mother  Genevieve,  was  among 
the  expelled,  and  suffered  all  kinds  of  persecutions  and 
privations  during  the  seventeen  years  which  elapsed  from 
the  time  of  his  landing  on  the  coast  of  Massachusetts  in 
1755  to  the  day  when  in  1772  he  found  his  way,  with 
his  poor  family,  to  a  settlement  of  Acadian  refugees 
called  Little  Acadia,  and  situated  about  25  miles  South- 
east of  Montreal. 

Here,  in  this  beautiful  colony  composed  of  countrymen 
of  his  who  had  escaped  the  English  tyrants,  Charles 
Granger  settled  down  to  a  peaceful  life,  the  end  of  which 
was  made  happy  by  the  ministrations  of  the  Faith  of 
which  he  had  become  a  confessor.  Many  children  sur- 
vived him,  among  whom  we  notice  John  Baptist,  who 

139 


SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

married  and  died  in  that  same  parish  where  his  father 
had  found  peace  and  comfort. 

Among  the  children  born  to  John  Granger  we  remark 
David,  bom  on  the  18th  of  January,  1808,  the  father  of 
Rev.  Mother  Genevieve.  He  married  in  1828  and  on  the 
2nd  day  of  November,  1832,  was  bom  to  him  a  daughter 
who  received  in  baptism  the  name  of  Sophia.  We  recall 
how  charmingly  that  proud  father  spoke,  even  in  old  age, 
of  the  tender  years  of  this  child  of  predilection.  He 
placed  her  in  school  under  the  care  of  an  old  educator 
who  soon  became  aware  of  the  extraordinary  talent  of 
the  child.  He  came  to  the  father  and  reported  the  rapid 
progress  of  his  pupil.  Again  and  again  they  talked  of 
this  little  girl  and  the  old  professor  used  to  remark 
emphatically:  "It  is  too  bad  that  she  is  not  a  boy  I  I 
assure  you  that  with  such  a  mind  she  would  make  her 
mark  in  the  world,  if  she  were  a  boy!" 

In  1841,  Oct.  1,  this  gifted  child  made  her  first  com- 
munion and  received  the  sacrament  of  Confirmation.  In 
1848,  when  she  had  almost  attained  her  16th  year,  some- 
thing unexpected  came  up  to  mar  her  projects.  She  had 
already  thought  of  becoming  a  religious  and  had  hoped 
to  enter  in  the  great  city  of  Montreal,  where  so  many 
Communities  were  in  full  prosperity,  God  had  different 
views,  however,  and  the  sudden  departure  of  her  family 
from  Canada  completely  upset  all  her  plans.  The  father 
pleaded  with  his  young  daughter  to  come  with  them  to 
the  distant  and  almost  unknown  country  of  Illinois.  He 
had  to  assure  her,  however,  that  she  could  enter  a  Com- 
munity in  Chicago  as  soon  as  they  would  have  settled 
down  in  some  definite  place  for  living. 

She  remained  almost  one  year  on  the  prairies  at  Bour- 
bonnais,  50  miles  South  of  here,  and  over  3  miles  away 
from  church  to  which  she  walked  every  Sunday,  and 
occasionally  on  Saturdays  in  time  to  go  to  confession, 
so  as  to  receive  Holy  Communion  early  the  next  day. 
Those  were  days  of  hardship  and  they  undubtedly  had  a 

140 


SAINT  XAVIER'S— CHICAGO 

great  deal  to  do  with  developing  the  strong  physical  con- 
stitution which,  later  on,  was  to  weather  so  many  storms 
during  the  long  span  of  over  half  a  century  of  a  most 
busy  and  self-sacrificing  life! 

At  last  the  longed-for  day  came  and  on  the  22nd  of 
April,  1849,  on  a  Friday  morning,  Sophia  Granger,  a  girl 
of  sixteen,  bade  farewell  to  all  and  started  on  a  two  days* 
journey,  in  hoosier  fashion,  across  the  prairies  to  Chi- 
cago, accompanied  by  a  dear  friend  whom  she  had  won  to 
the  cause  of  holy  religion,  Louise  Martin,  the  Sister  Mary 
Angela  of  today,  who  has  stood  steadfastly  by  her  side 
and  grown  dearer  with  the  years  in  a  friendship  which 
God  had  inspired  and  blest ! 

Having  brought  a  good  letter  of  recommendation  from 
her  pastor.  Father  Courjeault,  on  April  24th  she  was 
admitted  without  difficulty  into  the  order  of  the  Sisters 
of  Mercy,  then  the  only  Convent  in  Chicago. 

Nine  days  later  she  was  sent  to  Galena  where,  on  the 
13th  day  of  May,  Providence  brought  to  her  another  life- 
long companion  and  friend  in  the  person  of  Anne  Drum, 
now  Mother  Mary  Scholastica,  with  whom  she  made  her 
Novitiate  and  was  professed  on  the  13th  of  November, 
1851,  Bishop  Van  de  Velde  receiving  their  vows.  Sister 
Angela  Martin  had  remained  in  Chicago  and  made  her 
profession  in  December  of  the  same  year. 

Before  venturing  upon  a  cursory  review  of  those  fifty 
years  which  we  celebrate  today,  let  us  say  a  few  words 
more  of  the  parents  of  Rev.  Mother  Genevieve.  Though 
she  had  left  them  joyfully,  in  the  great  and  inspiring 
thought  of  her  exalted  calling  and  vocation  to  the  re- 
ligious state,  it  had  not  been  without  a  struggle  and  a 
pang  for  nature  always  asserts  her  rights  in  such  cir- 
cumstances. The  sacrifice  was  the  greater  in  this  case 
because  of  the  exceptionally  loving  disposition  of  the  par- 
ents she  left  behind.  Her  mother  was  a  model  of  good- 
ness and  of  piety;  her  father  an  intellectual  giant,  com- 
pared to  the  men  of  his  condition  and  surroundings.    A 

141  . 


I  SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

farmer  and  a  descendant  of  farmers  for  generations  back 
he  had  been  gifted  with  a  mind  that  would  have  made 
him  a  philosopher  and  a  leader  of  his  fellowmen  under 
better  educational  advantages.  Hampered  as  he  had 
been  he  had  read  on  almost  all  subjects  and  had  developed 
a  passionate  love  for  the  Sacred  Scriptures  and  Church 
History.  To  educated  strangers  who  chanced  to  converse 
with  him  he  appeared  a  phenomenon  and  they  wondered 
how  such  a  simple  and  unassuming  man  could  have  so 
cultivated  his  mind  and  soul! 

Besides  these  characteristics  of  depth  and  broadness 
of  mind  a  keen  sense  of  wit  and  humor  made  him  the 
most  pleasant  entertainer  and  conversationalist.  Add  to 
this  the  fact  that  such  a  father  had  years  ago  detected  in 
his  favorite  daughter  the  one  of  his  children  who  most 
resembled  him  in  every  respect  and  you  will  understand 
that  this  separation  was  a  sacrifice  such  as  can  be  made 
only  by  those  whom  the  Christian  Faith  elevates  above 
all  that  is  human  and  natural. 

This  courageous  father  lived  to  see  his  daughter  be- 
come the  Superioress  of  her  Community  and  always 
watched  with  pride  the  success  of  her  undertakings  for 
God's  greater  honor  and  glory.  He  died  full  of  years,  a 
patriarch  among  a  hundred  living  descendants,  on  the  8th 
of  December,  1898,  at  the  age  of  90  years  and  eleven 
months.  Rev.  Mother  Genevieve  and  Sister  Mary  Alexis, 
her  sister,  were  present  at  his  last  moments  and  they 
treasure  in  their  hearts  the  beautiful  words  of  Scripture 
he  quoted  repeatedly  to  them  after  receiving  the  holy 
Viaticum:  "I  am  the  living  bread  which  came  down 
from  Heaven.  He  that  eateth  my  flesh  and  drinketh  my 
blood,  hath  everlasting  life ;  and  I  will  raise  him  up  in  the 
last  day"  (John  vi:25).  So  died  this  humble,  yet  great. 
Christian  filled  with  hope  in  the  promises  of  his  Saviour, 
leaving  to  his  posterity  a  memory  that  will  become  more 
hallowed  with  every  receding  year  of  time! 

We  will  cast  a  glance  upon  the  past  only  to  make  more 

142 


SAINT  XAVIER'S— CHICAGO 

apparent  the  wonderful  change  which  has  been  wrought 
in  the  fifty  years  just  elapsed.  When  these  three  Jubi- 
larians  entered  the  Order  there  were  but  14  Sisters  in 
the  Community;  now  there  are  252,  including  Novices 
and  Postulants.  Then  the  city  counted  about  30,000  citi- 
zens ;  now  it  has  reached  its  two  millions.  Then  poverty 
stared  every  one  in  the  face ;  now  wealth  and  plenty  smile 
on  every  side.  Then  a  couple  of  poor  frame  churches 
were  being  built ;  now  over  130  parishes  have  been  estab- 
lished and  superb  temples  of  stone  and  marble  lift  their 
steeples  to  the  clouds,  proclaiming  the  faith  and  the  gen- 
erosity of  our  Catholic  population. 

And  our  works  of  charity  and  education!  how  could 
we  attempt  to  analyze  or  enumerate  them  on  this  occa.- 
sion?  Magnificent  hospitals,  large  asylums,  refuges  for 
Magdalens,  schools  for  the  deaf  and  dumb,  colleges  and 
academies :  what  a  panorama  of  achievements  passes  be- 
fore our  vision  tonight  as  we  look  back  proudly  with  our 
Jubilarians  over  the  fifty  years  in  which  God  granted 
them  to  live  and  to  help  produce  these  splendid  results. 
All  this  for  God's  greater  honor  and  glory,  through  the 
instrumentality  of  His  Christ-given  and  Christ-instituted 
Church ! 

It  is  glorious  indeed  to  have  borne  the  least  part  in 
the  production  of  such  marvelous  works,  and  we  are  com- 
pelled by  facts  to  proclaim  that  the  Sisters  of  Mercy  have 
never  yielded  to  any  in  zeal  and  self-sacrifice,  and  have 
remained  true  to  their  proud  title  of  "pioneers  of  the 
religious  life  in  our  Metropolis."  All  praise  to  them  as 
a  body  and  in  particular  to  the  most  worthy  Sisters  whom 
we  honor  on  this  fiftieth  anniversary  of  their  religious 
profession. 

Who  shall  endeavor  to  compute  the  good  works  accom- 
plished by  consecrated  virgins,  the  purest  and  the  best 
of  our  race?  What  are  they,  indeed,  and  what  is  their 
life?  They  are  the  Spouses  of  Christ  and  their  sole  am- 
bition is  to  render  themselves  worthy  of  such  a  divinely 

143 


SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

beautiful  calling.  Their  life  is  essentially  one  of  self- 
denial  and  self-effacement,  in  prayer  and  works  of  sacri- 
fice. To  despise  the  vanity  of  worldly  mottoes  and  prin- 
ciples, and  to  practice  the  great  and  saving  Evangelical 
precepts  of  poverty,  chastity,  and  obedience :  such  is  their 
sublime  and  ennobling  aim.  The  word  "Convent"  evokes 
in  the  mind  the  charming  vision  of  a  haven  of  peace  and 
charity  and  purest  joy  serene.  "Blessed  are  the  pure  of 
heart,  for  they  shall  see  God"  (Matt.  v:8).  "These  fol- 
low the  Lamb,  whithersoever  He  goeth"  (Apoc.  xiv:4). 

Truly  there  is  now  but  one  thing  to  check  their  course 
of  progress  and  that  would  be  a  scarcity  of  vocations.  We 
must  confess  that  the  new  ways  of  life  in  society,  the 
soft  and  easy-going,  not  to  say  sensual  and  enervating 
habits,  of  our  times,  are  a  great  hindrance  to  the  designs 
of  Providence  in  this  respect.  Parents  are  frequently 
unable  to  rise  to  a  degree  of  Christian  self-denial  in 
keeping  with  the  holy  desires  and  aspirations  of  their 
gifted  and  pure-minded  children.  Worldly  ambition  and 
financial  projects  lead  them  to  deny  their  children  the 
freedom  of  choice  to  which  they  have  a  God-given  right. 
Let  parents  remember  that  these  precious  charges  are 
given  them  by  God  and  that  He  reserves  to  Himself  the 
first  right  over  them. 

What  a  pity  it  is  to  observe  such  ill-disguised  selfish- 
ness as  will  prevent  a  young  person  from  following  a 
religious  vocation,  once  that  call  is  well  determined  and 
perfectly  apparent  to  spiritual  guides.  No  greater  in- 
justice could  be  perpetrated  against  God  and  the  inno- 
cent soul  thus  prevented  from  realizing  the  good  work 
assigned  to  her  by  an  All-Wise  Providence.  May  such 
cases  become  fewer  with  the  diffusion  of  true  enlighten- 
ment among  our  people,  and  may  the  young  themselves 
be  more  careful  not  to  turn  a  deaf  ear  to  the  voice  of 
conscience  in  this  important  matter. 

It  should  be  a  subject  of  pride  and  gratification  to  the 
truly  Christian  parent  to  have  given  a  religious  to  God. 

144 


SAINT  XAVIER'S— CHICAGO 

There  should  be  no  greater  and  no  purer  happiness  after 
that  of  having  given  a  priest  to  the  Church.  And  we 
know  by  experience  that  such  generous  parents  and  fam- 
ilies are  blest  from  above.  They  become  the  pillars  of 
the  Church  and  the  lights  of  Christian  society. 

We,  therefore,  hope  that  vocations  will  now  be  more 
numerous  than  ever.  Nothing  would  tend  more  to  re- 
joice and  gladden  the  hearts  of  our  Jubilarians  than  to 
see  a  greater  increase  in  the  ranks  of  their  Community, 
so  as  to  render  it  more  capable  than  ever  to  cope  with 
the  present  great  needs  of  the  parishes  and  schools  of  this 
growing  city.  "The  harvest  indeed  is  great,  but  the 
laborers  are  few.  Pray  ye  therefore  the  Lord  of  the 
harvest  that  he  may  send  forth  laborers  into  his  harvest" 
(Matt.  ix:37). 

Finally,  we  humbly  petition  Almighty  God  to  accept 
our  heartfelt  thanks,  and  those  of  all  present  on  this 
occasion,  for  the  long  years  of  life  granted  to  the  most 
worthy  Sisters  whose  Golden  Jubilee  we  celebrate  today, 
and  beg  of  Him  to  continue  to  prolong  their  beautiful 
lives  for  many,  many  years  to  come,  for  the  edification 
and  consolation  of  the  Sisters  of  Mercy  and  for  the 
greater  honor  and  glory  of  the  Catholic  Church,  of  which 
they  are  such  shining  ornaments.  We  offer  our  sin- 
cerest  congratulations  and  say  to  them  from  our  hearts : 
"Ad  Multos  Annos"! 

The  following  letter  speaks  for  itself,  coming  as  it  does, 
from  a  very  dear  friend,  tried  and  true,  who  has  since 
gone  to  his  eternal  reward : 

St.  Mary's  Cathedral, 
San  Francisco,  Cal.,  Nov.  23,  1901. 
Dear  Mothers  Genevieve  and  Scholastica,  and  Dear  Sister 
M.  Angela: 
I  send  you  from  this  distant  coast  my  most  affec- 
tionate congratulations  on  the  occasion  of  your  Golden 
Jubilee.    It  was  with  great  regret  that  I  was  obliged  to 

145 


SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

leave  Chicago  before  the  celebration,  and  deprive  myself 
of  the  pleasure  of  being  present  on  that  day.  I  will, 
however,  be  with  you  in  spirit  on  the  28th,  and  God  will- 
ing, will  offer  for  you  three  the  Holy  Sacrifice  of  the 
Mass  on  that  morning.  You  will  please  accept  the  Chal- 
ice as  a  little  token  of  my  friendship,  and  I  ask  from  you 
now  and  then  a  memento  in  your  prayers. 
Ever  sincerely  yours, 

P.  W.  RIORDAN. 
(Archbishop  of  San  Francisco.) 

Following  are  programs  of  those  eventful  days : 

JUBILEE  GREETINGS 

To 

Rev  M.  M.  Genevieve  Granger,  Mother  M.  Scholastica 

Drum  and  Sister  M.  Angela  Martin 

1851—1901 

"And  thou  shall  sanctify  the  fiftieth  year  and  shall  pro- 
claim remission  to  all  the  inhabitants  of  thy  land; 
for  it  is  the  year  of  the  Jubilee" — Lev.  c  :25,  10. 

CHILDREN'S  DAY 

Wednesday,  November  The  Twenty-Seventh 

"His  mercy  is  confirmed  on  us  and  His  truth  remainelh 

forever" — Ps.  cxvi. 
Solemn  Benediction  of  the  Most  Blessed  Sacrament 

Rt.  Rev.  M.  F.  Burke,  D.D.,  St.  Joseph,  Mo. 

PROGRAM 

By  the  Pupils  of  the  Academy,  Recital  Hall 

Chorus — "Hail,  Festal  Day" Donizetti 

Pupils'  Address  to  the  Jubilarians Miss  J.  Nichol 

Solo — "When  the  Heart  is  Young Miss  V.  DeLee 

Accompanied  by  Miss  M.  Brown 

146 


SAINT  XAVIER'S— CHICAGO 

Las  Cuerdas  Magicas — 

Mandolins:  Misses  J.  Nichol  and  M.  Ferrier 
Piano :  Miss  M.  Brown 

Solo— "The  Message" Miss  R.  Cofey 

Accompanied  by  Miss  M.  Brown 
Marceau  Characteristque — 

Violins:  Misses  I.  Burke,  G.  Graham  and  J.  Nichol 
Harp:  Miss  M.  Graham 
Piano :  Miss  Rose  Barry 

The  Mystic  Crowning  of  the  Years 

"The  laborers  whom  Christ  in  His  garden  chose  to  be  His 
helpmates" — Par.  xii  :70. 

Characters 

Jubilee  Angel Birdie  Horgan 

Mercy Katherine  Maloney 

Poverty  Viola  Delee 

Chastity Matilda  Heissler 

Obedience Katherine  Mooney 

Humility Mary  Brown 

Life   Margaret  Foy 

Chorus  of  Spirits 
Chorus — "Te  Deum  Landamus" — 

Harps :  Misses  M.  Larkin  and  J.  Byrne 

Piano:  Miss  R.  Barry 

Address Rev.  A.  D.  Granger 

COMMUNITY  DAY 

Thursday,  November  The  Twenty-Eighth 

"Our  help  is  in  the  name  of  the  Lord  who  made  Heaven 
and  earth" — Ps.  c. 

Pontifical  High  Mass 

Right  Reverend  P.  J.  Muldoon,  D.D.,  Celebrant;  Very 
Reverend  M.  J.  Fitzsimmons,  Assistant  Priest;  Rev. 
J.  Powers  and  Rev.  J.  Gillan,  Deacons  of  Honor; 

147 


SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

Rev.  F.  S.  Henneberry,  Deacon;  Rev.  E.  A.  Kelly, 

Sub-deacon;  Rev.  B.  Murray  and  Rev.  J.  F.  Callag- 

han,  Masters  of  Ceremonies. 

Sermon Reverend  D.  J.  Riordan 

Reception  for  the  clergy  and  visiting  religious 
Benediction  of  the  Blessed  Sacrament  and  Coronation  of 

the  Jubilarians,  by  the  Right  Reverend  Peter  James 

Muldoon,  D.D. 

NOVITIATE  DAY 

Friday,  November  The  Twenty-Ninth 

"They  shall  come  with  joy  fulness  carrying  their  sheaves" 

— Ps.  cxxvi. 
Mass  at  nine  o'clock 

Rt.  Rev.  A.  J.  McGavick,  D.D.,  Celebrant 

Sermon Reverend  H.  O'Gara  McShane 

Solemn  Benediction  of  the  Blessed  Sacrament 

ALUMNAE  DAY 

Saturday,  November  The  Thirtieth 

"The  Lord  has  done  great  things  for  us;  we  are  made 
joyful" — Ps.  cxxv. 

Festa  by  Post-Graduates 
High  Mass — 

Celebrant :  Rev.  D.  J.  Riordan 
Organist :  Miss  Genevieve  Higgins 

Planting  of  Jubilee  Tree 

Planters :  Rev.  Mother  Genevieve,  Mother  M.  Scholastica, 

Sister  M.  Angela 

Mistress  of  Ceremonies:  Miss  Gertrude  Jackson 

Assistants:  Class  of  1901 

"Farewell  of  the  Forest" Alumnae  Chorus 

Luncheon 
Matrons:  Twelve  members  of  the  alumnae 

148 


SAINT  XAVIER'S— CHICAGO 

PROGRAM 

President's  Address Mrs.  Imelda  Grace  Bremner 

Harp  Solo Miss  Katherine  Gillam 

Jubilee  Poem Mrs.  Elizabeth  Clowry  Keogh 

Tableau 

The  Five  Joyous  Mysteries  of  the  Rosary 
Ave  Maria  from   Cavalieria  Rusticana — Miss   L.  Blish 

I.  "The  Annunciation,"  after  a  painting  by  Shields 

Blessed  Virgin Miss  C.  Hudson 

Organ — "Magnificat" — Alumnae  Chorus 

II.  "The  Visitation,"  after  Carl  Mueller's  "Mary  and 

Elizabeth" 

Blessed  Virgin Miss  Clara  Hudson 

St.  Elizabeth Mrs.  E.  D.  Reynolds 

"Holy  Night" — Miss  Matilda  Heissler 

III.  "The  Nativity,"  after  Carl  Mueller's  "Holy  Night" 

The  Infant Baby  Clara  Leona  Fay 

Blessed  Virgin Miss  Clara  Hudson 

St.  Joseph Miss  Ida  Gundrura 

[      Miss  A.  Sandmeyer 

Shepherds ]  Miss  M.  Bennett 

[  Miss  M.  Heissler 

(  Miss  Catherine  Byrne 

^,  .,,  Miss  Virginia  Linton 

Children \       ,,    .      j^     ,  -r, 

1        Master  Paul  Byrne 

[    Master  Ned  Reynolds 
"Within  This  Sacred  Dwelling"— Mrs.  Nellie  Cahill  Ryan 

IV.  "The  Presentation,"  after  a  painting  by  Vittore 

Carpaccio 

The  Infant Baby  Clara  Leona  Fay 

Blessed  Virgin Miss  Clara  Hudson 

St.  Joseph Miss  Ida  Gundrum 

Holy  Simeon Miss  Bridgie  Cavanaugh 

Prophetess  Anna Miss  Sophia  Jennings 

149 


SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

Maidens Miss  M.  Brady 

Mrs.  Sarah  Hickey  McKinley 

Censor  Bearer Master  Raymond  Fitzpatrick 

Candle  Bearer Miss  Hazel  Burke 

Child Master  Clowry  Keogh 

Organ— "The  Holy  City" 

V.     "The  Finding  of  the  Child  Jesus,"  after  Hoffman's 

"Christ  and  the  Doctors" 

The  Child  Jesus Master  Eugene  Morgan 

Mrs.  Marie  Tourtelot  Robinson 
Mrs.  Katherin  Buckley  Burke 

Doctors -!  Mrs.  F.  C.  Templeton 

Mrs.  R.  McDonald  Larkin 
Miss  Mary  Farrell 

Blessed  Virgin Miss  C.  Hudson 

St.  Joseph Miss  Ida  Gundrum 

Benediction  of  the  Blessed  Sacrament 

Rev.  M.  S.  Gilmartin 

"0  Salutaris" Miss  S.  A.  Bonfield 

Organ :  Miss  Genevieve  Higgins 
Alumnae  Chorus 

Alumnae  Officers 

Mrs.  Imelda  Grace  Bremner President 

Miss  Laura  F.  Bonfield Vice-President 

Miss  Kittie  Murphy Treasurer 

Mrs.  Theresa  Noonan  Linton Secretary 

Golden  Jubilee 
Nov.  13,  1901 

Bring  forth  the  crowns,  the  crowns  of  purest  gold, 

To  grace  the  brows  of  our  beloved  Three; 
And  while  our  hearts  beat  high  with  bliss  untold. 

Proclaim  this  day  a  Golden  Jubilee. 

The  triumph  of  our  saintly  Trinity 
Whose  Fifty  years  of  modest  matchless  worth 

Are  closing  now  mid  scenes  of  holy  mirth. 

150 


SAINT  XAVIER'S— CHICAGO 

Those  years,  untarnished  are  their  crowns  of  light; 

Their  virtues  are  the  brilliant  gems  that  shine 
Effulgent  in  the  ray's  serenely  bright 

That  stream  upon  them  from  the  Throne  divine, 

And  make  them  fair  in  His  dear  eyes  benign, 
The  Spouse,  to  whom,  all  cherished  ones  above, 

They  gave  their  young  hearts  first  and  fondest  love. 

0  blessed  Three,  O  glorious,  saintly  Three, 

Fair  symbols  are  ye  of  that  Trio  grand, 
Sweet  Faith,  bright  Hope  and  radiant  Charity, 

That  rule  predestined  souls  at  God's  command ; 

E'en  so  do  ye,  our  own  illustrious  Band, 
O'er  many  a  loyal  heart  hold  sovereign  sway. 

And  thus  we  crown  you  Queens  of  love  today. 

Sweet  Sisters,  say  what  offerings  can  we  bring, 

Tho'  earth  yield  all  her  treasures  rich  and  rare? 

What  praises  can  we  speak,  what  anthem  sing, 
That's  worthy  of  a  festival  so  fair. 
Or  can  their  rich  merit,  and  our  love  declare? 

Awake,  0  Muse!  thy  rapturous  notes  employ. 
To  sound  the  glory  of  this  feast  of  joy. 

Ah !  call  not  on  the  unskilled  lowly  Muse, 

Not  hers  the  voice  for  this  supernal  day ; 

For  though  the  glorious  task  she'd  not  refuse. 
And  fondly  would  her  feeble  best  essay. 
How  poor,  how  all  unmeet  would  be  the  lay! 
Some  nobler  voice  must  sound  the  glad  refrain; 

Some  grander  melody  enhance  the  strain. 

Not  earthly  music  then  shall  be  our  choice, 

Lest  all  our  sweetest  thoughts  remain  untold, 

We'll  bid  the  angels  as  with  one  glad  voice 
(The  notes  attuned  to  harmonies  of  gold) 
The  depth  and  beauty  of  the  theme  unfold, 

151 


SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

And  we  in  silence,  yet  our  hearts  on  fire, 
Exult  to  hear  the  grand  celestial  choir. 

And  yet,  to  own  the  love  that  kinder  grew 
With  every  cycle  of  those  bounteous  years, 

The  germs  of  friendship — old  yet  ever  new, 
The  tender  sympathy  in  grief  and  fears, 
We  must  have  utterance,  be  it  but  in  tears. 

Oh !  who  will  give  us  fitting  voice  to  tell 

The  grateful  pulses  which  arise  and  swell? 

There  is  no  voice ;  Earth's  harmony  is  vain. 

Nor  can  it  with  our  hearts'  deep  song  accord; 
Beloved  Ones,  we  know  you'll  not  disdain 

The  faltering  words  affection  hath  out-poured. 

A  closing  prayer : — Oh !  grant  them  dearest  Lord, 
On  earth,  full  many  a  day  as  bright  as  this. 

In  Heaven,  a  crown  of  everlasting  bliss ! 

— Sister  Mary  Gabriel  Byrne,  Alumna. 
Sisters  of  Mercy,  Ottawa,  111. 


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CHAPTER  ELEVEN 

St.  Joseph  the  faithful  ally  of  St.  Xavier's. 
Hymn  to  the  Saint  by  the  Graduating  Class 
of  1889.  Letter  from  a  youth  sentenced  to 
the  penitentiary.  Visitation  of  the  sick  and 
afflicted.  A  comical  letter  from  a  would-be 
nun. 


a 


CHAPTER  ELEVEN 

St.  Joseph  has  always  been  the  faithful  ally  of  the 
Community,  especially  in  financial  straits. 

The  efficacy  of  his  intercession  was  manifested  by 
the  following  examples.  It  was  almost  an  impossibility 
to  find  means  to  meet  the  interest,  taxes  and  support  of 
the  Sisters,  when  the  hard  times  almost  crushed  St. 
Xavier's  Academy.  Recourse  to  prayer  was  the  only  ray 
of  hope  in  the  dark  outlook.  A  novena  was  commenced 
to  the  good  St.  Joseph,  begging  him  who  had  provided  for 
Jesus  and  Mary  to  aid  the  suppliants  who  had  consecrated 
their  lives  to  Jesus  and  His  Holy  Mother.  The  very  day 
this  was  ended  Mr.  Jenkins  called  at  the  Convent  saying 
he  wished  a  home  for  life  in  Mercy  Hospital,  and  to 
secure  it  he  offered  fifteen  hundred  dollars.  This  was 
gladly  accepted  and  gratefully  did  the  Community  return 
thanks  to  the  foster  father  of  their  Divine  Spouse  for 
giving  the  petition  so  favorable  an  answer.  This  good 
man,  Mr.  Jenkins,  transacted  much  business  for  Mercy 
Hospital  and  he  was  always  obliging  and  contented  dur- 
ing the  many  years  he  lived. 

On  another  occasion  a  bill  of  $500  had  to  be  met  on  a 
certain  day.  Mother  Genevieve  managed  to  collect  $400, 
but  could  not  succeed  in  her  effort  to  get  the  other  one 
hundred.  St.  Joseph  was  again  appealed  to.  The  day  of 
payment  arrived  without  an  answer  to  the  petition. 
Hov/ever,  the  good  Saint  was  only  trying  the  faith  of  the 
Community,  for  about  ten  minutes  before  the  note  was 
due  Rev.  Mother  received  a  letter  with  a  check  for  $100 
enclosed. 

Shortly  after  this  event  she  was  trying  to  meet  another 

155 


SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

bill,  and  again  was  the  difficulty  placed  in  this  good 
Saint's  generous  hands;  the  time  drew  near  when  the 
debt  had  to  be  paid.  One  day  a  gentleman  called  at  the 
Convent  saying  he  wished  to  see  the  Mother  Superior; 
on  presenting  herself  he  handed  her  the  sum  she  needed. 
She  inquired,  "To  whom  am  I  indebted  ?"  He  replied,  "It 
is  restitution  money;  I  am  a  priest,  ask  no  other  ques- 
tion." 

This  is  one  of  the  numerous  benefits  the  Catholic 
Church  bestows  on  the  world — restitution  is  requisite 
before  a  priest  can  absolve  the  sinner;  non-Catholics 
acknowledge  the  beneficial  result  of  this  and  many  of 
them  have  received  money,  although  they  never  knew  how 
or  when  it  was  stolen  from  them. 

A  letter  was  received  by  Rev.  Mother  Genevieve  after 
the  fire,  when  money  was  very  much  needed ;  its  contents 
were  as  follows :  "Enclosed  you  will  find  $35  I  have  taken 
from  Mercy  Hospital.  Don't  seek  for  my  name,  you  will 
never  find  out." 

Rev.  Mother  Genevieve's  business  qualities  were  of  the 
highest  order,  and  she  managed  the  gravest  financial 
difficulties  for  years  with  surprisingly  few  mistakes,  none 
of  which  were  serious.  When  eveiyone  acquainted  with 
existing  conditions  at  certain  epochs  prophesied  certain 
failure,  she  still  trusted  in  a  kind  Providence,  urging 
strenuous  prayer  with  good  works  on  her  struggling 
Community.  She  would  often  say :  "Dear  Sisters,  if  we 
are  faithful  to  God  in  our  daily  duties,  work  purely  for 
His  honor,  keep  our  Holy  Rule  and  be  strictly  charitable 
on  all  occasions,  He  will  hear  our  prayers  and  bring  us 
through  all  difficulties."  She  placed  her  trust  in  Him,  and 
she  was  not  confounded. 

Fearing  to  alarm  the  hard-working  Sisters,  even  when 
things  were  at  the  very  worst,  she  always  preserved  a 
wonderful  calmness.  And,  when  some,  on  getting  an 
inkling  of  how  matters  stood,  went  to  her  in  great  per- 

156 


SAINT  XAVIER'S— CHICAGO 

turbation,  she  sweetly  smiled,  and  reassuring  them  in  her 
gentle,  motherly  way  the  rising  tempest  was  soon  allayed 
and  they  returned  to  their  work  knowing,  as  she  said, 
that  God  would  provide.  Nevertheless,  the  wear  and  tear 
of  all  the  worry,  trying  to  make  both  ends  meet  and  to 
keep  perfectly  calm  through  such  a  strain,  told  on  her 
nervous  system. 

Reverend  Mother  was  naturally  witty,  though  she 
rarely  exercised  it  on  seculars.  Shortly  after  her  first 
election  many  business  men  were  very  urgent  for  money 
due  them.  Mr.  Law,  a  wealthy  coal  dealer,  called  fre- 
quently, dunning  her  for  a  large  amount  owing  to  him. 
At  last  one  day  he  seemed  determined  to  get  the  money 
due  him,  so  he  stormed  and  fumed  and  finally  exclaimed, 
"If  you  do  not  pay  this  bill  in  three  days  I  will  enter 
suit."  "Well,  now,  Mr.  Law,  that  would  be  unkind," 
meekly  replied  Rev.  Mother.  "Not  at  all,"  said  he.  "I 
have  children  to  support  and  I  must  have  this  money." 
Very  sweetly,  she  enquired,  "How  many  children  have 
you,  Mr.  Law?"  "I  have  two  children,"  said  he.  "Why, 
I  have  seventy-five  looking  up  to  me  for  bread  and 
butter,"  said  Rev.  Mother.  He  suddenly  picked  up  his  hat 
and  left  without  a  word,  except,  "Good-day,  Madam." 

Another  creditor  called  in  the  midst  of  financial 
difficulties  and  declared  in  no  measured  language  that  he 
came  for  his  money,  and  he  would  not  leave  without  it. 
The  good  Mother  revolved  in  mind  the  deplorable  fact 
that  she  had  not  a  dollar  in  the  house,  nor  yet  a  cent  in 
the  bank,  so  she  breathed  a  fervent  prayer,  and  tried  in 
her  own  gentle  way  to  propitiate  this  irate  man,  but  all 
to  no  purpose;  he  must  have  his  money  today.  "Today?" 
said  she.  "Yes,  today!  I  will  wait  no  longer!"  "Well, 
then  I  must  ask  you  to  call  again  this  evening."  "Very 
well ;  I  shall  be  here  without  fail  at  seven." 

In  relating  this  occurrence  next  day,  Mother  Genevieve 
said  she  knew  not  why  she  told  him  that,  but  the  thought 

157 


SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

came  and  she  gave  expression  to  it  without  reflection. 
She  knew  she  was  making  a  novena  to  St.  Joseph  for  help, 
and  she  hoped,  almost  against  hope,  that  he  would  not  fail 
her.  She  was  not  mistaken ;  that  very  afternoon  an  old 
man  came  and  paid  a  long-standing  debt,  which  gave  her 
enough  to  keep  her  word,  to  the  great  surprise  of  her 
evening  caller. 

When  a  certain  party  wished  to  carry  on  a  lawsuit,  he 
knew  Mother  Genevieve  would  be  a  good  witness,  and 
she  got  an  inkling  of  his  intention  to  subpoena  her. 

Now,  of  all  things  abhorred  by  a  religious,  that  of 
appearing  in  a  crowded  courtroom  is  one  of  the  worst, 
and  she  made  up  her  mind  she  would  visit  the  Sisters  in 
some  branch  houses,  hence  she  was  never  at  home  when 
the  agent  of  the  law  called  for  her.  How  to  get  her 
within  hearing  distance  was  the  puzzle. 

On  inquiries  in  the  neighborhood,  he  learned  she  was 
always  easily  accessible  to  the  poor  and  afflicted;  so  one 
day,  after  a  reasonable  time,  he  donned  a  miserable  suit 
of  old  clothes  and  at  the  Convent  door  said  he  must  see 
the  Superior — no  one  else  would  do,  as  he  would  tell  his 
troubles  to  no  one  but  the  Superior.  The  ruse  was  a  per- 
fect success,  and  poor  Mother  Genevieve  was  caught  in 
the  trap. 

Down  she  came  to  the  parlor  to  comfort  the  afflicted. 
"Well,  my  good  man,  what  can  I  do  for  you?"  Quickly 
taking  the  subpoena  out  of  his  pocket,  he  read  it  to  her 
v/ith  a  look  of  triumph,  and  his  work  was  done.  She 
could  not  refrain  from  smiling,  and  he  was  surprised  at 
the  pleasant  way  in  which  she  took  her  discomfiture,  but 
when  she  met  the  Sisters  at  general  recreation  she 
laughed  heartily  in  telling  it  for  the  amusement  of  all. 
For  a  long  time  after,  when  they  wanted  to  raise  her 
spirits,  they  would  ask  if  she  had  any  poor  callers  lately. 

The  visitation  of  prisoners  in  the  County  Jail  is  also 
a  duty  which  has  never  been  neglected;  Rev.  Mother 

158 


SAINT  XAVIER'S— CHICAGO 

Genevieve  often  enquired  for  the  poor  unfortunates,  and 
cautioned  the  Sisters  never  to  ask  them  questions  as  to 
their  guilt,  lest  they  would  be  called  upon  to  testify 
against  them.  Of  course,  all  are  "innocent,"  according  to 
their  own  statements ;  in  reply  to  some  of  these  a  Sister 
would  remark,  "I  wonder  why  you  are  here  when  you  are 
not  guilty."  It  often  seems  useless  to  try  to  touch  the 
hearts  of  such  hardened  specimens  of  humanity,  yet  by 
dint  of  sympathy  numberless  souls  are  brought  back  to 
a  sense  of  duty,  and  induced  to  make  another  effort  in 
right  doing. 

The  letter  which  follows  is  from  a  young  man  who  got 
into  bad  company  and  starting  out  for  a  lark  one  evening 
without  knowing  his  companion  had  a  revolver  found 
himself  and  his  friend  in  the  grip  of  the  police.  The 
revolver  had  done  its  deadly  work  and  murder  was  the 
result.    He  was  locked  up  as  an  accomplice : 

Chicago,  Sept.  15,  1904. 
Dear  Sister: 

I  was  up  to  trial  today  and  was  sentenced  to  eighteen 
years  in  the  penitentiary. 

It  is  more  than  I  had  expected,  but  I  suppose  I  may 
consider  myself  very  lucky  that  it  is  no  worse,  when  you 
take  into  account  the  happenings  of  that  kind  in  the  city 
for  the  past  two  weeks. 

Well,  dear  Sister,  I  haven't  lost  confidence  in  St. 
Anthony  and  the  Blessed  Virgin.  I  am  sure  that  they 
will  yet  open  up  a  way  for  me  to  get  out.  I  am  afraid 
that  I  may  not  see  you  any  more  for  a  while,  as  I  expect 
to  be  taken  away  about  Monday. 

I  want  to  thank  yourself  and  the  other  kind  Sisters 
out  there,  who  have  taken  such  a  kindly  interest  in  me 
since  I  have  been  here.  I  will  say  good-bye  and  ask  you 
to  remember  me  in  your  prayers. 

Will  you  kindly  send  me  two  pairs  of  Scapulars?  Father 
O'Callahan  said  Mass  Sunday,  and  also  delivered  another 

159 


SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

of  his  real  good  sermons.  He  certainly  reached  the  heart 
of  some  of  the  men,  as  two  of  them  asked  me  to  get 
Scapulars  for  them.    Yours  respectfully, 

Cook  County  Jail.  S.  J.  Q. 

It  may  be  seen  from  this  letter  he  was  well  educated, 
and  he  had  a  very  good  position  doing  clerical  work,  but 
evil  communications  corrupt  good  morals. 

His  prayers  were  answered,  as  his  behavior  was  so 
admirable  and  his  former  friends  so  numerous,  he  was 
released  at  the  end  of  five  years.  Long  after,  he  called 
on  the  Sisters  who  used  to  visit  the  jail,  and  he  was 
accompanied  by  his  two  little  sons,  of  whom  he  was  very 
proud,  as  he  was  giving  them  the  right  training. 

The  following  letter  from  the  "John  Worthy  School"  to 
a  Sister  was  written  by  a  former  very  promising  pupil 
of  a  parochial  school.  She  felt  there  were  excellent  traits 
in  the  lad  and  she  wrote  encouragingly  to  him  that  he 
might  not  go  from  bad  to  worse.  His  reply  shows  the 
results  of  kindness  in  his  hour  of  need : 

Dear  Sister: 

Your  letter  was  a  most  pleasant  surprise.  I  was  very 
sorry  to  hear  that  William  Dowling  is  ill.  I  said  my 
Rosary  for  him  and  hope  he  will  soon  be  well. 

I  am  very  lonseome  here  at  present,  because  we  are 
quarantined,  several  of  the  boys  having  shown  signs  of 
diptheria.  We  go  to  Mass  every  Sunday.  Father  Quille 
of  the  Working  Boys'  Home  is  our  Chaplain. 

Every  Thursday  evening  we  recite  the  Rosary  and  the 
Litany  of  the  Blessed  Virgin. 

Dear  Sister,  I  am  doing  my  best  to  control  my  temper. 
I  am  trying  to  say  my  beads  twice  a  day.  I  promise  you 
that  while  I  am  in  this  school  I  shall  do  my  best  to  keep 
away  from  any  boys  whose  language  or  conversation 
might  be  a  cause  of  sin  for  me.    I  hope  I  may  soon  be 

160 


SAINT  XAVIER'S— CHICAGO 

released  and  know  you  will  pray  for  me  that  with  another 
chance  I  may  prove  that  there  is  some  good  in  me.  I 
shall  be  faithful  to  my  daily  prayers  and  with  God's  help 
I  trust  that  never  again  shall  I  be  arrested.  I  shall  let 
you  know  when  the  quarantine  is  lifted  so  you  may  come 
and  see  me.  I  appreciate  the  interest  you  show  in  me  and 
hope  you  may  yet  be  proud  of  me.  I  expect  to  have  a 
good  report  this  month,  and  if  my  record  is  good  while 
here  I  will  soon  be  home. 

Hoping  I  may  hear  from  you  again,  I  remain, 
Your  affectionate  pupil, 

W.  C. 

The  visitation  of  the  sick  sometimes  brings  wonderful 
cases  under  the  observation  of  the  Sisters. 

Mrs.  ,  paralyzed  for  years  and  a  great  sufferer 

from  various  causes,  was  frequently  visited  by  the 
Sisters.  For  some  time  she  had  rebelled  against  Provi- 
dence for  afflicting  her  in  so  many  ways,  but  at  length 
grace  conquered  and  she  became  perfectly  resigned. 
Shortly  before  she  expired,  while  the  Sisters  were  pray- 
ing by  her  bed,  she  exclaimed,  "Lord,  I  cannot  stand  it!" 
They  asked  her  what  was  it  that  she  felt  so  much,  and 
she  told  them  the  light  from  the  crucifix  dazzled  her 
eyes.    It  became  so  brilliant,  it  finally  had  to  be  covered. 

Such  beautiful  examples  are  not  always  the  rule,  and 
sometimes  death-bed  scenes  are  harrowing.  An  Italian 
was  dying  some  years  ago,  and  a  priest  was  called  in  to 
attend  him.  An  interpreter  was  also  summoned.  The 
usual  method  in  such  cases  was  followed  and  through  the 
interpreter  the  priest  said,  "If  you  have  done  so  and  so, 
squeeze  my  hand."  Confession  thus  made,  the  good 
Father  proceeded  to  administer  the  Holy  Viaticum,  but  as 
soon  as  he  placed  the  Sacred  Heart  on  his  tongue  it  flew 
off  on  to  the  sheet.  Again  he  tried  to  place  it,  but  like 
lightning  it  was  transferred  to  the  sheet.  A  third  time 
the  terrified  priest  placed  it  on  the  tongue,  but  all  in  vain ; 

161 


SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

SO  he  ordered  the  sheet  to  be  sent  to  his  house  to  be 
burned.  It  is  needless  to  relate  further  the  deplorable 
circumstances  attending  the  death  of  that  unfortunate 
man. 

Some  people  have  queer  ideas  about  the  subjects  com- 
posing a  religious  community.  The  greater  part  of 
non-Catholics  imagine  disappointment  is  the  cause  of  a 
religious  vocation  and  many  good  laughs  the  Sisters  have 
about  this  mistaken  idea. 

The  lady  who  wrote  the  following  letter  has  the 
strangest  conception  of  the  qualifications  necessary  for 
reception  into  a  convent.  The  letter  is  given  verbatim, 
but  the  name  and  address  are  left  out. 

Dec.  6,  1894. 

To  the  Mother  Superior  of  St.  Xavier's. 

Dear  Sister:  I  thought  of  entering  a  convent.  I  have 
this  place  worth  about  five  hundred  my  husband  is  much 
older  than  I  am  but  he  is  very  quite  he  would  not  mind  to 
come  with  me  and  tend  to  the  fires  or  the  horses  or  cows 
or  anything  you  have  to  do,  when  I  was  a  girl  I  thought 
of  it  I  did  not  have  money  enough.  I  have  a  good  piano 
and  play  well  my  sister  lives  in  Chicago  and  would  be 
glad  to  come  with  me.  Mary  Ann  and  all  she  has  is  one 
little  boy,  we  read  of  the  saints  in  olden  times  going  to 
the  Convent.  Ann  is  living  in  Brooklyn  N.  Y.  she  is  an 
extremely  good  girl  and  she  made  good  pay  at  the  Corset 
Factory.  Sweet  Mary  she  wanted  to  be  a  nun  when  she 
was  a  girl  all  my  thought  is  God  and  holy  piety,  well  let 
me  know  please  Sister.  I  am  very  good  at  sewing.  Mother 
and  my  two  brothers  live  in  Chicago  au'i  my  sisters.  Once 
a  year  they  could  come  to  see  me.  I  never  had  any  chil- 
dren but  I  am  all  prayer  and  devotion  at  least  I  try  to 
be.  I  could  be  ready  in  a  couple  of  weeks  well  I  would 
like  to  have  the  holy  Habit  and  so  would  Martin.  He  gets 
a  pension  that  would  do  him  for  clothes,  twelve  dollars  a 
month.    Well  I  will  be  glad  to  wear  the  holy  Habit  and 

162 


SAINT  XAVIER'S— CHICAGO 

to  be  with  you  dear  Sister.  When  I  have  heard  from  you 
I  will  sell  this  place  and  go  up  there  with  you,  will  you 
give  it  to  me  at  once  or  will  I  have  to  wait,  my  piano  is 
very  nice.  Dear  Sister  I  know  you  will  be  kind  to  us 
we  will  embrace  celibacy,  my  sister  would  be  glad  to  have 
the  holy  habit  to  she  could  stay  with  Martin,  she  plays 
to,  when  she  was  girl  she  wanted  to  be  a  sister.  Well 
good-by    Yours  in  haste  M.G.C, 

It  is  needless  to  add  that  Mother  Genevieve  replied, 
advising  this  pious  family  to  apply  elsewhere. 


163 


CHAPTER  TWELVE 

Letters  to  absent  members  from  Rev.  M. 
Genevieve.  "Friendship's  Token" — Poem, 
Class  of  '98.  Solicitude  of  Rev.  M.  Genevieve 
for  health  of  Sisters.  The  three  Altars  con- 
secrated at  Forty-ninth  street. 


J 


CHAPTER  TWELVE 

It  v/as  always  a  pleasure  to  Mother  Genevieve  to  find 
that  the  Sisters  met  difficulties  with  composure,  showing 
themselves  equal  to  any  emergency.  One  day  when  some 
Sisters  returned  from  school  and  told  her  how  frightened 
they  were  when  their  horse  fainted  on  the  road  she  looked 
very  serious  and  said,  "Well,  I  am  glad  the  Sisters  were 
stronger  than  the  horse,  since  they  did  not  faint,  too." 

The  following  letters  show  how  kind  and  affectionate 
was  her  attitude  toward  her  spiritual  children : 

Mother  Genevieve  writes  to  six  of  the  Chicago  Sisters, 
who  are  spending  a  part  of  their  vacation  in  Ottawa,  111. : 

Convent  of  Mercy,  Wabash  Avenue  and  2dth  Street. 
Chicago,  Feast  of  St.  Vincent. 
My  Very  Dear  Children: 

1  have  just  read  your  letter  for  the  third  or  fourth 
time,  as  everyone  that  comes  in  wants  to  know  the  news 
from  Ottawa. 

I  am  glad  to  hear  you  are  all  well  and  enjoying  your 
visit.  I  am  sorry  the  dear  Sisters  are  giving  themselves 
so  much  trouble  to  entertain  you ;  that  will  oblige  you  to 
shorten  your  visit,  as  I  am  sure  you  don't  wish  to  wear 
out  your  welcome;  however,  I  do  not  wish  to  restrict 
you.  Come  home  when  you  desire  it,  and  be  sure  you 
don't  forget  your  Pass.  If  you  want  change  to  pay 
your  fare  in  the  Buss  coming  home,  let  me  know  and  I 
will  send  it. 

We  are  having  a  grand  time  today  in  honor  of  Mother 
Mary  Vincent.  I  will  enclose  a  bill  of  fare,  but  I  hope 
it  won't  make  your  teeth  water. 

Will  you  please  read  the  Pass  and  see  whether  the 

167 


SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

Mosquitoes  were  named  in  it.  They  have  all  departed 
for  parts  unknown  since  you  left,  and  the  Sisters  thought 
they  had  gone  with  you  to  Ottawa. 

Father  Boniface  got  through  the  Confessions  before 
half -past  five ;  he  began  at  a  quarter  to  three.  Isn't  that 
quite  an  improvement  on  the  first  time?  I  don't  know 
whether  or  not  he  attributes  it  to  the  absent  Sisters. 

Sisters  Mary  Agatha  and  Philomena  went  to  the  Hos- 
pital last  evening  and  three  went  over  this  morning.  The 
Sisters  say  it  is  like  retreat  Sunday  here,  and  Mother 
Mary  Vincent  says  the  people  look  up  as  they  pass  by  the 
house,  wondering  what  is  the  matter. 

Rev.  Father  Dunne  called  this  morning  with  a  cheque. 
Didn't  I  tell  you  he  was  clever?  He  was  surprised  to  find 
that  his  logic  had  not  dissuaded  you  from  going  to 
Ottawa. 

He  is  going  on  a  colonization  trip  with  Father  P.  W. 
Riordan ;  they  intend  to  start  next  week. 

Tell  dear  Sister  Mary  Baptist  I  can't  find  her  discipline 
and  the  reason  I  can't  find  it  is  because  I  did  not  look  for 
it,  and  the  reason  I  did  not  look  for  it  is  because  I  didn't 
think  I  could  find  it. 

Jennie  Miller  was  here  today;  she  is  going  away  and 
was  sorry  you  had  all  gone,  as  she  wanted  to  say  good-bye. 

With  fond  love  to  dear  Rev.  Mother  and  all  the  dear 
Sisters  in  Ottawa,  particularly  the  travelers, 

Yours  affectionately  in  Christ, 

Sister  Mary  Genevieve. 

P.  S. — Sister  Mary  Pius  just  now  asked  whether  there 
was  room  enough  to  put  in  her  love. 

Written  while  Mother  Mary  Genevieve  was  visiting  the 
Sisters  of  Mercy  in  Pennsylvania : 

St.  Xavier's  Academy,  Beatty,  Pa.,  Oct.  20,  1893. 
My  Very  Dear  Sister  Mary  Thomas: 

Your  very  kind  letter  was  duly  received,  but  I  could  not 

168 


SAINT  XAVIER'S— CHICAGO 

get  time  to  answer  it  until  now.  Yesterday  morning  we 
took  a  walk  to  the  Grave  Yard;  it  is  surrounded  by  a 
beautiful  hedge  of  Arbor  Vita  about  twelve  feet  high.  We 
also  walked  to  the  barn  and  the  pasture  ground,  where 
the  cattle  were  grazing.  They  have  a  pretty  little  donkey, 
which  a  priest  bought  in  Mexico  for  $1.50,  but  it  cost 
$25.00  for  freight  to  bring  it  here.  When  it  is  two  years 
old  they  will  get  a  little  cart  and  the  children  can  ride 
around  the  Academy  grounds.  It  is  really  a  pretty  little 
animal.  Sister  Pius  was  quite  taken  with  it.  Its  hair 
is  mouse  color,  but  it  has  a  cross  of  black  hair  on  its  back. 

After  dinner  Mother  Mary  Neri,  Mother  Mary 
Mechtildis,  Sister  Mary  Pius  and  I  had  a  ride  in  the 
Sisters'  carriage  over  to  Latrobe.  I  do  not  know  what 
the  distance  is,  but  we  were  no  less  than  an  hour  on  the 
way.  We  passed  by  the  Benedictine  Monastary.  It  was 
a  delightful  ride  over  hill  and  dale,  and  the  weather  was 
charming,  as  it  is  also  today — the  air  so  balmy,  it  is  quite 
invigorating. 

I  am  very  grateful  for  the  prayers  said  for  our  safe 
return.  Tell  dear  Sister  Mary  Alexis  to  persevere  in 
praying  until  we  get  home. 

Sister  Mary  Pius  unites  with  me  in  love  to  all  the  dear 
Sisters. 

Your  devoted  in  our  Lord, 

Sister  Mary  Genevieve. 

God  bless  you. 

On  the  fiftieth  anniversary  of  her  entrance,  Mother 
Genevieve  wrote  thus  to  the  Sister,  who  came  with  her 
to  the  Convent  and  who  is  still  living : 

St.  Xavier's  Academy,  2834  Wabash  Avenue, 

April  24,  1899. 
My  Dear  Sister  Mary  Angela: 

I  am  sure  you  remember  what  happened  fifty  years  ago 
today.    It  does  not  seem  so  long.    May  God  be  praised  for 

169 


SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

all  His  mercies  to  us,  especially  for  our  holy  vocation  and 
the  grace  of  perseverance.  I  thought  of  going  to  take 
dinner  with  you  today,  but  have  had  earache  for  some 
time.    I  am  much  better,  but  fear  to  venture  out. 

Praying  our  dear  Lord  to  bestow  His  choicest  blessings 
on  you, 

Yours  devotedly  in  Christ, 

Sister  Mary  Genevieve. 

Rev.  Mother  Genevieve's  love  of  the  religious  life,  and 
her  reverence  for  all  things  pertaining  to  her  vocation 
could  be  observed  in  her  every  action.  When  reading  the 
expression  of  Father  Faber's  thoughts  on  Thanksgiving 
to  God  for  all  His  benefits,  her  life  would  instantly  rise 
up  before  the  mind  as  embodying  the  principles  set  forth 
in  his  treatise,  so  perfect  and  continuous  seemed  to  be  her 
gratitude  to  the  Blessed  Trinity  for  the  many  favors  con- 
ferred upon  all  mankind,  as  well  as  upon  herself;  hence 
her  abiding  attitude  was  one  of  praise  to  God  for  her 
vocation  and  for  the  grace  of  perseverance.  The  thought 
that  He  chose  her  to  be  wholly  devoted  to  His  service 
filled  her  with  a  deep  sense  of  her  own  unworthiness  and 
made  her  so  humble  that  those  who  closely  studied  her 
life,  with  a  view  to  profit  by  the  observation,  could  not 
find  wherein  to  hide  their  own  pride  in  the  brightness  of 
her  example. 

The  sisters  cherished  a  letter  from  her,  no  matter  how 
brief,  as  a  treasure.  Its  very  simplicity  made  it  more 
valuable  to  them,  because  they  understood  the  heart  that 
dictated  the  loving  words;  so  when  she  was  away  from 
home,  how  eagerly  each  hoped  to  receive  even  a  few 
lines  from  her  pen. 

During  the  winter  of  1900  a  very  persistent  bronchial 
affection  seemed  to  be  undermining  Mother  Genevieve's 
health,  and  after  several  acute  attacks  the  doctor  ordered 
her  South.    A  few  days  after  she  and  her  companions — 

170 


SAINT  XAVIER'S— CHICAGO 

Sisters  Mary  Victoire  and  Benedicta — who  also  needed  a 
change,  reached  the  end  of  their  journey,  she  wrote  to 
the  companion  of  her  early  days  as  follows : 

Hotel  Dieu,  El  Paso,  Texas,  March  21, 1900. 

My  Dear  Sister  Mary  Angela: 

You  have  no  doubt  heard  by  this  time  of  our  safe 
arrival  in  El  Paso.  We  reached  here  a  little  after  ten 
o'clock  Sunday  morning;  left  our  baggage  and  went  to 
Church,  where  we  assisted  at  High  Mass,  followed  by  a 
sermon  preached  by  a  French  Jesuit.  By  twelve  o'clock 
we  were  back  at  the  Sanitarium,  where  we  had  our 
dinner,  and  then  took  some  rest,  which  was  followed  by 
Benediction  at  four  o'clock. 

Our  journey  was  very  pleasant.  I  never  slept  so  well 
on  the  cars  in  my  life  before,  thanks  to  the  kindness  of 
Mr.  J.  R.  Walsh,  who  secured  a  drawing  room  for  us; 
God  bless  him.  The  Sanitarium  is  located  at  the  end  of 
the  city,  and  is  the  quietest  place  I  ever  was  in,  except 
St.  Mary's,  Libertyville.  The  white  coronet  Sisters  of 
Charity  have  charge  of  it.  The  house  is  very  nice  and 
very  well  kept.  My  room  is  near  the  chapel,  which  is 
quite  convenient  for  me.  It  is  a  pleasant  room  and  the 
Sisters  are  exceedingly  kind  and  attentive,  but  we  see 
very  little  of  them,  except  in  the  chapel;  they  are  kept 
quite  busy  as  the  house  is  full. 

There  are  four  priests  here  at  present  in  quest  of 
health — a  secular  priest  from  Ireland,  a  Jesuit  from  New 
York  and  two  from  Chicago,  viz. :  Father  Mullaney  and 
our  owTi  Father  McDonald,  who  was  at  St.  James 
formerly. 

Only  think  we  had  four  masses  yesterday  and  today. 
You  see  we  have  fine  opportunities  for  prayer,  and  we 
do  not  forget  all  our  dear  Sisters  in  Chicago,  who  are 
never  away  from  my  thoughts. 

173 


SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

With  fond  love  to  you  and  all  the  dear  Sisters,  praying 
God  to  bless  and  keep  you  all, 

Your  affectionate  in  Christ, 

Sister  Mary  Genevieve. 

On  another  occasion  when  two  Sisters  crossed  the 
broad  Atlantic  in  order  to  settle  some  family  affairs,  she 
knew  how  lonely  it  must  be  for  them  so  far  from  home 
amongst  strangers,  and  she  tried  to  cheer  them  by  writing 
whenever  she  had  time.  Among  other  letters  we  find  the 
following : 

January  14,  1892. 
My  Very  Dear  Sister  Michael: 

I  owe  you  two  or  three  letters,  but  I  know  you  have 
forgiven  me  long  ago.  I  have  just  finished  a  reply  to  dear 
Sister  Mary  Ignatius.  I  hope  this  will  be  in  time  for  the 
same  boat. 

Today  we  heard  of  Cardinal  Manning's  demise.  Some 
one  remarked  that  you  and  Sister  never  miss  anything — 
you  reach  Ireland  just  in  time  for  Parnell's  funeral,  and 
now  you  are  in  England  for  the  Cardinal's  and  the  Prince 
Royal's.  The  children  had  a  grand  sleigh-ride  yesterday. 
Mr.  J.  R.  Walsh  sent  three  large  sleighs.  I  think  there 
were  fifty  in  each  sleigh,  and  they  enjoyed  it  to  their 
hearts'  content. 

The  Sisters  at  St.  Gabriel's  are  in  the  new  Convent 
since  Thanksgiving  Day;  the  first  Mass  was  said  on  the 
Feast  of  the  Immaculate  Conception. 

Our  music  here  on  Christmas  Day  was  simply  grand, 
also  on  St.  Genevieve's  Day.  Rev.  J.  Melody  was  the 
celebrant  from  the  Catholic  University.  The  new  harp 
was  used  for  the  first  time  Christmas,  and  with  the  vio- 
lin, mandolin  and  organ  rendered  the  Venite  in  a  heavenly 
manner. 

174 


SAINT  XAVIER'S— CHICAGO 

Last  but  not  least,  I  must  tell  you  that  poor  Paul  Woods 
is  no  more.  Poor  boy  met  a  tragical  end.  He  came  home 
from  Notre  Dame  for  Christmas  and  stayed  with  his 
parents  at  the  Waverly  Hotel.  On  Monday  morning  at 
two  o'clock,  the  4th  instant,  an  alarm  of  fire  was  given. 
Willie  had  been  out  late  and  was  in  the  dining  room  at 
the  time.  He  ran  upstairs,  roused  them  all  from  sleep  and 
carried  his  little  sister  down.  Then  he  went  back  and 
got  his  parents  and  Paul  on  the  elevator.  When  it 
reached  the  bottom  the  place  was  full  of  smoke  and  Willie 
got  out  first.  After  this  the  man  who  worked  the  car  got 
out  and  the  crank  turned  back;  the  elevator  started  up 
while  the  others  in  it  were  trying  to  get  out.  Mr.  and 
Mrs.  Woods  were  severely  injured,  but  Paul  was  crushed 
to  death.  His  parents  are  inconsolable — they  had  centered 
such  hopes  in  their  artist  son.  Sister  M.  Pius  also  feels 
very  bad  about  her  former  pupil.  She  had  to  break  the 
sad  news  to  the  heart-broken  father,  who  cannot  be 
reconciled.  It  is  very,  very  sad,  indeed.  But  pray  for  all 
of  them  that  the  good  God  may  be  their  help  in  this  dire 
hour  of  need. 

Many  were  the  inquiries  the  past  week  about  the  dear 
absent  ones.  It  was  a  great  satisfaction  to  hear  from 
Mr.  B.  Feeney  of  the  safe  arrival  of  your  boat. 

We  are  all  as  well  as  usual,  except  our  poor,  dear  Sister 
M.  Jerome  Lowry,  who  cannot  linger  much  longer;  her 
cough  is  most  distressing.  A  little  after  three  this  morn- 
ing we  were  called  as  dear  Sister  thought  herself  she  was 
dying.  We  said  all  the  last  prayers,  but  she  rallied  and 
at  half-past  six  she  received  Holy  Communion  and  the 
Holy  Sacrifice  was  off'ered  for  her.  Later — our  dear  Sister 
has  gone  to  her  Heavenly  Home.  At  a  quarter  before 
nine  this  morning  she  expired  without  a  struggle.  May 
she  rest  in  peace. 

175 


SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

I  must  say  good-night  and  God  bless  you.     All  send 
abundance  of  love  and  best  wishes  for  a  speedy  return. 
Your  devoted  in  our  Lord, 

Sister  M.  Genevieve. 

When  a  Sister's  health  failed  she  always  tried  to  let 
her  have  a  change  of  air  and  scenery  in  order  to  build 
up  what  seemed  breaking  down.  The  following  letter 
to  one  who,  with  four  others,  had  been  sent  to  Davenport 
Convent  for  that  purpose  illustrates  her  motherly 
interest. 

Chicago,  Aug.  2,  1894. 
My  Dear  Sister  Mary  Nolasco: 

I  will  answer  your  dear  letter  at  once,  lest  I  should 
be  prevented  later  on.  I  am  glad  to  hear  the  improvement 
in  your  health  is  sure,  even  if  it  is  slow.  Tell  me  candidly, 
Are  you  really  better?  I  sincerely  hope  you  are  are,  also 
the  other  dear  Sisters  who  went  with  you,  as  all  were  on 
the  sick  list. 

Do  not  overtax  your  strength  during  retreat  there ;  take 
plenty  of  rest  during  the  free  time  and  all  the  nourish- 
ment you  can.  It  will  be  time  enough  to  fast  when  you 
get  strong.  It  is  cool  here  today.  I  hope  you  and  the 
others  brought  enough  clothing  to  keep  you  comfortable 
if  it  keeps  as  cool  as  this.  I  read  your  letter  for  the 
Sisters,  as  they  were  anxious  to  hear  how  the  travelers 
fared,  and  they  were  all  pleased  to  know  you  had  a 
pleasant  journey  to  Davenport.  Make  the  most  of  your 
time  out  in  the  open  air,  but  remember  you  cannot  live 
on  the  air,  so  don't  forget  the  nourishment. 

All  unite  in  affectionate  love  to  you  and  dear  Sisters 
Mary  Benedicta,  Laurian,  Rosaline  and  Lily. 

May  God  bless  you  all  and  bring  you  home  well  and 
strong.    Thank  dear  Rev.  Mother  Francis  and  the  good 

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SAINT  XAVIER'S— CHICAGO 

Sisters  for  me,  for  their  great  kindness  to  all  of  you  and 
give  them  much  love  from  our  Community. 
Your  affectionate  in  our  Lord, 

Sister  Mary  Genevieve. 

Another  characteristic  letter  follows.  It  shows  how, 
amidst  her  many  pressing  duties,  Mother  Genevieve  gave 
attention  to  what  seemed  to  her  correspondents  very 
urgent,  while  far  weightier  duties  called  for  her  attention. 
Often  it  was  after  others  had  retired  for  the  night  that 
she  kindly  replied  to  absent  members — for  reply  she 
always  did,  notwithstanding  the  multiplicity  of  more 
onerous  calls. 

Convent  of  Our  Lady  of  Mercy,  St.  Francis  Xavier's, 

Feast  of  St.  Ann. 
My  Very  Dear  Sister  Mary  Corona: 

Your  very  nice  letter  was  duly  received,  and  read  with 
real  pleasure.  I  thank  our  Lord  for  His  great  goodness 
in  making  you  so  happy ;  I  believe  we  must  be  happy  to 
accomplish  anything  for  the  glory  of  God  and  the 
salvation  of  souls.  I  have  prayed  and  am  still  praying 
earnestly  for  the  success  of  the  retreat ;  it  is  so  great  an 
opportunity  to  lay  up  treasures  for  the  present  and  the 
future. 

You  have  heard  of  the  death  of  Edward  Coins,  our 
dear  Sister  Mary  Pierre's  brother.  "Blessed  are  the 
dead  who  die  in  the  Lord,"  may  well  be  applied  to  him. 
I  never  saw  any  one  meet  death  with  more  resignation 
or  better  dispositions.  I  spent  quite  a  little  time  with 
him  Saturday  morning;  he  was  almost  in  a  dying  condi- 
tion then,  but  perfectly  conscious ;  he  was  so  grateful  for 
every  little  act  of  kindness,  so  patient  in  his  suffering  and 
perfectly  resigned  to  the  holy  will  of  God ;  death  had  no 
terror  for  him.  He  requested  me  to  allow  dear  Sister 
Mary  Pierre  to  remain  at  the  Hospital.  I  told  him  she 
would  remain  as  long  as  he  lived.    He  was  very  grateful. 

177 


SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

His  dear  Sister  was  with  him  when  he  died  and  he  was 
perfectly  happy. 

We  had  solemn  High  Mass  for  him  in  the  Hospital  this 
morning,  Rev.  Father  O'Shea  of  St.  Anne's  officiated  and 
the  Sisters  sang  the  Mass.  The  singing  was  fine,  as 
usual.  Dear  Sister  Mary  Cyril's  mother  died  Monday 
morning,  about  one  hour  earlier  than  Edward  Coins ;  her 
funeral  Mass  took  place  at  half-past  eleven  o'clock  this 
morning. 

Twenty-two  Sisters  went  on  St.  Anne's  pilgrimage 
today.  We  had  visitors  from  Ottawa  and  Cincinnati,  but 
they  have  all  gone  now ;  the  last  left  this  morning.  God 
willing,  we  will  visit  St.  Mary's  Saturday ;  will  you  please 
ask  dear  Sister  Mary  Gabriel  to  send  the  Wagonette  to 
meet  us  at  St.  Mary's  crossing? 

With  fond  love  to  each  dear  Sister  and  a  fervent  "God 
bless  you  all." 

Your  affectionate  in  Jesus  Christ, 

Sister  Mary  Genevieve. 

Writing  to  a  local  Superior  regarding  difficulties,  she 
shows  the  greatest  sympathy,  adding,  "I  was  awake  quite 
a  while  last  night  thinking  of  your  trials ;  through  many 
tribulations  we  must  enter  the  Kingdom  of  Heaven.  I 
think  you  and  your  co-laborers  are  near  it.  'They  that 
sow  in  tears  shall  reap  in  joyfulness.'  You  will  surely 
have  a  great  reward  for  the  many  sacrifices  you  have 
made  since  you  became  a  recluse. 

"My  heart  has  often  ached  for  you,  for  I  fully  realized 
how  dreary  it  is  there;  yet  I  did  not  know  what  else  to 
do,  and  I  do  not  think  anyone  else  could  have  done  the 
good  you  have  accomplished.  Our  Lord  loves  you  very 
dearly  when  he  tries  you  so  much." 

It  is  quite  evident  the  motherly  heart  of  this  good 
Superior  was  deeply  affected  whenever  any  of  her  Sisters 
were  laboring  under  unusual  difficulties.  And  when  the 
financial  affairs  of  the  Community  were  not  in  a  pros- 

178 


SAINT  XAVIER'S— CHICAGO 

perous  condition  she  was  the  last  in  the  Chapel  at  the 
foot  of  the  altar,  every  night,  recommending  her  difficul- 
ties to  the  all-watchful  Providence,  who  never  forsook 
her. 

St.  Francis  Xavier's  Convent  of  Our  Lady  of  Mercy, 
4928  Evans  Avenue,  Chicago,  Dec.  15,  1903. 
My  Dear  Sister  M ; 

Your  kind  letter  gave  me  much  comfort.  I  am  delighted 
to  hear  you  are  feeling  so  much  better.  Your  ill  health 
worried  me  very  much.  I  had  resolved  to  keep  you  home 
after  Christmas,  although  I  did  not  see  how  I  could  fill 
your  place  at  St.  Mary's.  I  felt  that  your  health  must 
be  considered  before  everything  else.  If  you  are  per- 
fectly satisfied  to  return  after  New  Years  and  finish  the 
school  year,  I  think  it  will  be  better  for  all  concerned.  I 
have  no  doubt  but  God  will  provide  for  next  summer, 
when  I  intend  to  relieve  you  if  you  desire  it.  As  you 
expressed  in  your  letter,  it  is  difficult  to  make  such 
changes  at  this  season  of  the  year.  God  will  bless  and 
reward  you  for  the  sacrifice  you  are  willing  to  make.  I 
hope  you  will  keep  warm  this  weather.  It  is  very  cold 
here  and  I  am  sure  it  must  be  worse  in  the  country.  Have 
you  enough  of  coal  for  the  winter?  Be  sure  you  let  me 
know  in  time  if  you  should  want  more.  How  lovely  it 
will  be  when  we  are  all  together  in  the  House  of  our 
Heavenly  Father!  Has  anybody  written  you  an  account 
of  the  celebration  we  had  here  last  Tuesday,  the  Feast 
of  the  Immaculate  Conception  of  our  Blessed  Mother? 
Our  three  altars  were  consecrated  by  His  Grace,  Most 
Rev.  Archbishop  Quigley.  He  preached  a  very  beautiful 
sermon  after  consecrating  the  altars,  and  after  the  ser- 
mon three  Masses  were  celebrated — a  solemn  High  Mass 
at  the  high  altar  and  a  low  Mass  at  each  of  the  side  altars. 
After  dinner  all  left  us,  apparently  well  pleased  with 
everything,  and  I  assure  you  I  was  not  sorry  it  was  over, 
for  I  never  was  and  never  will  be  fond  of  public  celebra- 

179 


SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

tions.    I  have  written  this  letter  in  great  haste,  as  I  want 
you  to  get  it  in  time  to  send  to  the  crossing  for  the  Jesuit 
Father  Thursday  morning.     With  love  to  you  and  each 
dear  Sister  as  if  named.    May  God  bless  you  all. 
Your  very  affectionate  in  Jesus  Christ, 

Sister  Mary  Genevieve. 

friendship's  token  lovingly  tendered  to  dear 
reverend  mother  mary  genevieve 

By  the  Class  of  '98 

Dear  Reverend  Mother  Genevieve, 

Since  Providence  had  not  ordained 

That  we  might  greet  thee  on  the  day 

When  thou  didst  keep  thy  sacred  feast, 

Today  He  brings  thee  in  our  midst 

That  we  might  testify  the  love 

That  bums  within  our  hearts  for  thee. 

O  Mother  dear,  couldst  thou  but  see 

How  bright  its  flame  doth  glow !    Thou  canst 

Not  find  a  more  unfailing  light 

'Neath  ocean's  depths  nor  on  earth's  expanse. 

Then,  Mother,  at  thy  feet  we  place 

Our  joyous  hearts  today,  and  beg 

Thee  plant  within  thy  heart  the  flower 

Of  love,  which  long  has  bloomed  in  ours, 

And  waft  its  fragrance  unto  Heaven, 

On  wings  of  purest,  holiest  prayer. 

Where  it  may  circle  'round  God's  throne. 

As  incense  'round  His  earthly  shrine. 

And  there,  dear  Mother,  thou  wilt  find 

What  our  poor  hearts  would  fain  express, 

That  love  on  earth  ends  not  at  death, 

But  lives  divine  in  Heaven  again. 

Accept  today,  then,  Mother  loved. 

Our  greetings  most  sincere  and  true. 

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SAINT  XAVIER'S— CHICAGO 

Congratulations  ne'er  shall  cease 

Until  this  bright  and  glorious  Feast 

Shall  find  thee  rapt,  with  thy  dear  Saint, 

In  ecstasy  before  thy  God 

Enjoying  Heaven's  eternal  bliss. 

Dear  Mother,  we,  indeed,  refrain 

From  wounding  thy  humility; 

But  canst  thou  blame  us  if  we  see 

Reflected  in  thy  life,  so  pure, 

The  virtues  of  this  shepherdess. 

Whose  blessed  feast  is  also  thine? 

Like  her,  while  yet  in  youths  fair  bloom 

Thy  guileless  heart  disdained  the  world, 

With  all  its  selfish,  empty  hopes, 

And,  languishing  for  love  divine. 

Didst  cast  aside  all  earthly  ties 

To  consecrate  thy  life  to  God, 

And  as  His  Bride  thou  fain  wouldst  dwell 

Within  the  Convent's  sacred  bounds. 

Where  buds  of  virtue  might  unfold 

Their  petals,  pure  and  frail,  and  glow 

To  fuller  bloom,  beneath  the  dews 

Of  grace  and  light  of  Heav'nly  love. 

Today,  dear  Mother,  thy  loved  Saint 

Is  overjoyed  to  see  how  thou. 

For  thy  dear  Savior's  sake, 

Hast  kept  in  its  unfading  bloom 

Thy  lily  frail,  of  purity. 

How  anxiously  she  watches  o'er 

Her  loved  one  here  below,  and  with 

What  earnest,  faithful  zeal  she  guards 

What  to  thy  heart  is  now  most  dear ! 

As  in  her  childhood  she  was  wont 

To  gently  tend  her  father's  sheep. 

So  now,  when  Heaven  has  crowned  her  Saint, 

She  ceases  not  her  holy  task 

181 


SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

But  aids  thee  still  as  thou  dost  guard 
Thy  heav'nly  Father's  loving  flock. 
0  Mother  dear,  how  grand  thy  life! 
How  pure  its  aim  divine !    Could  we 
But  lift  the  mystic  veil  of  true 
Humility,  behind  whose  folds 
Thy  God  reveals  Himself  to  thee, 
What  virtues  rare,  what  wealth  untold 
Would  not  our  wondering  eyes  behold! 
But,  Mother,  thy  dear  Saint  alone 
With  Heaven,  this  privilege  may  share 
Oh,  may  she  guide  thee  tenderly 
O'er  life's  unstable  sea,  until 
She  safely  anchors  thy  frail  bark 
In  harbors  of  eternity, 
Where,  in  thy  Father's  mansion,  thou 
May'st  wear  the  virgin's  crown  and  sing 
With  her  the  sacred  song,  which  none 
Can  sing,  save  those  who  lilies  bear. 

Agnes  Ennessy,  '98. 


182 


CHAPTER  THIRTEEN 

Familiar  instructions  of  Rev.  Mother  Gene- 
vieve. Her  great  self-control  amid  numerous 
trials.  *'He  maketh  the  virtues  of  the  just 
to  shine  as  the  stars."  "Be  angry  and  sin 
not,"  was  exemplified  in  her. 


CHAPTER  THIRTEEN 


Philosophers  teach  that  we  are  blessed  with  an  intellect 
and  a  will  to  guide  and  determine  our  actions,  but  the  will 
being  a  blind  power  and  having  no  intrinsic  light,  has  to 
be  guided  by  the  intellect.  However,  we  have  reason  to 
know  that  even  the  intellect  may  be  deluded,  as  in  intel- 
Ictual  error;  hence,  to  be  a  safe  guide  it  must  see  the 
truth  which  is  its  natural  object.  The  more  clearly  it 
sees  it  the  better  guide  it  is  for  the  will. 

The  power  of  discerning  truth  in  doubtful  matters  was 
remarkable  in  Mother  Genevieve,  and  she  not  only  recog- 
nized it  herself,  but  she  had  the  faculty  of  making  it  clear 
to  others.  How  many  times  in  all  those  years  of 
Superiority  was  she  called  upon  to  scatter  the  mists  of 
doubt  in  the  minds  of  young  and  old,  and  when  she  had 
finished  her  exposition  of  the  truth,  how  clear  it  all 
seemed !  Yet  on  some  rare  occasions  she  would  prudently 
advise,  "Ask  your  Confessor  for  information  on  that 
subject." 

Interior  trials  were  not  wanting  in  her  life,  though  she 
was  usually  placid  and  amiable  toward  others. 

A  certain  Sister  says,  "Mother  Genevieve  told  me 
after  she  became  Superior  that  her  greatest  trial  was  a 
tendency  to  sadness."  Yet  who  would  suspect  it?  No 
matter  who  applied  to  her  for  advice  or  assistance,  she 
was  always  apparently  cheerful  and  sympathetic,  never 
referring  to  her  own  trials,  and  always  endeavoring  to 
lighten  the  burden  of  others,  to  cheer  the  dejected,  to 
encourage  the  faltering  and,  most  of  all,  to  spur  them  on 
in  the  rugged  road  to  perfection.  She  would  frequently 
say :  "How  good  is  God !  We  are  but  unprofitable  servants 
as  we  have  given  Him  only  what  is  His  by  right.    He 

186 


SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

owes  US  nothing,  so  we  are  simply  paying  our  debt, 
imperfectly,  too." 

When  fault  was  found  with  anyone  in  her  presence, 
she  would  very  sweetly  remark,  "Well,  now  let  us  find 
some  good  in  her;  all  have  more  good  than  at  first  sight 
it  may  seem." 

If  the  tree  is  judged  by  its  fruit,  surely  a  very  favorable 
judgment  may  be  formed  of  this  holy  religious,  who  not 
only  edified  all,  but  also  led  many  sweetly  on  in  the 
service  of  the  Master. 

"I  never  can  forget,"  said  a  Sister,  "her  beautiful 
words  on  charity.  Often  she  would  remind  us  we  may 
have  to  suffer  for  years  in  purgatory  for  one  uncharitable 
thought  or  word."  When  clear-sighted  to  the  faults  of 
others  she  would  say,  "It  is  a  sign  we  are  neglecting  our 
own.  We  should  always  begin  at  home  by  humility,  each 
one  strive  to  correct  what  is  amiss  in  herself,  and  we  will 
not  then  have  time  to  notice  the  little  faults  of  others. 
Charity  is  the  bond  of  perfection — first  God,  then  our 
neighbor;  seeing  God  in  each  and  loving  all  in  Him  and 
for  Him.  We  cannot  fail  in  conversation  if  we  carry  this 
out,  for  we  will  be  most  careful  never  to  hurt  the  feelings 
of  another.  Coldness  or  resentment  should  find  no  place 
in  the  heart  of  a  true  servant  of  God,  much  less  of  a 
religious.  Let  us  frequently  examine  ourselves  on  the 
Chapter  of  our  Holy  Rule  on  Charity,  as  it  contains  all 
that  is  necessary  for  the  greatest  perfection  of  this  holy 
virtue. 

"We  cannot  gain  souls  by  harshness.  Kindness  and 
firmness  are  invincible.  God  first,  then  our  neighbor. 
Failures  in  this  great  virtue  of  charity  proceed  from 
pride.  If  we  read  our  Holy  Rule  frequently,  study  it  in 
fact,  especially  the  chapter  on  humility,  we  shall  always 
bear  and  forbear,  and  never  entertain  the  slightest 
coldness." 

St.  Teresa  says  the  reason  God  loves  humility  so  dearly 

186 


SAINT  XAVIER'S— CHICAGO 

is  because  He  is  the  Supreme  Truth,  and  humility  is 
truth,  as  it  is  most  true  we  have  nothing  good  of 
ourselves.  Now,  Mother  Genevieve  always  attributed 
everything  praised  in  her  to  the  good  God,  saying,  "Not 
to  us,  O  Lord,  be  honor,  but  to  Thee."  In  conversation 
with  her  one  could  not  help  feeling  greater  reverence  for 
God  and  less  esteem  for  self. 

She  frequently  reminded  the  Sisters  that  the  true 
definition  of  a  religious  is,  "A  person  who  makes  it  her 
profession  in  life  to  aim  at  perfection,  as  a  musician  en- 
deavors to  excel  in  her  art,  or  a  teacher  aims  at  doing 
her  work  perfectly." 

Being  asked  on  one  occasion  if  diplomacy  of  language 
did  not  mean  deceit  or  insincerity,  she  replied,  "No!  but 
it  does  mean  grace  in  conversation  and  effectiveness  in 
argument,  for  St.  Francis  de  Sales  taught  that  it  is  a  holy 
dissimulation  and  may  be  cultivated  with  excellent 
results." 

She  was  of  opinion  that  none  of  us  are  exceedingly 
fond  of  the  persons  who  are  so  ready  at  all  times  and 
under  all  conditions  to  criticise  and  bluntly  say,  "You 
have  made  a  mistake !"  It  does  not  matter  whether  they 
know  anything  about  the  question  at  issue  or  not.  Their 
self-assertiveness  and  superiority  of  manner  render  them 
ungracious  in  their  remarks.  Though  all  make  many 
mistakes,  we  resent  being  told,  "You  have  made  a  great 
mistake!"  The  same  thought  can  be  expressed  kindly 
and  with  quite  as  much  force  as  when  said  offensively.  To 
be  told  you  are  making  a  mistake,  at  once  puts  you  on 
the  defensive;  to  ask  if  you  have  not  made  a  mistake, 
leaves  you  in  a  receptive  mood  and  open  to  discussion. 
Unnecessary  bluntness  or  crudeness  of  expression  never 
gains  friends. 

A  famous  author  says :  "One  of  the  rarest  powers  is 
to  state  a  fact.  To  comprehend  and  state  a  fact  in  cor- 
rect language  are  the  work  of  a  mind  singularly  gifted, 

187 


SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

finely  balanced  and  thoroughly  practical."  This  rare 
power  was  possessed  in  a  marvelous  degree  by  Mother 
Genevieve,  and  what  was  more  admirable,  she  viewed  it 
in  a  supernatural  light,  for  she  considered  it  a  matter 
of  conscience  to  use  this  great  gift  on  all  occasions, 
endeavoring  to  get  those  under  her  guidance  to  do  like- 
wise. Of  course  it  caused  her  to  appear  at  times  too 
matter-of-fact,  but  in  the  long  run  it  only  proved  her 
wisdom. 

She  was  truly  a  valiant  woman  and  feared  nothing  so 
much  as  injustice  to  anyone,  even  a  child.  She  never 
sided  with  a  pupil  against  a  teacher  as  she  knew  that 
would  lessen  authority,  but  if  she  thought  the  punish- 
ment too  severe  she  lost  no  time  in  reasoning  with  the 
teacher. 

On  many  occasions  tots  came  to  her  begging  to  be  ex- 
cused from  restrictions  given  them.  Reasoning  with  the 
little  ones  she  always  convinced  them  they  deserved  their 
punishments,  and  finally  prevailed  on  them  to  accept 
cheerfully  and  even  thankfully,  what  was  prescribed  for 
them. 

Her  spirit  of  recollection  was  truly  admirable,  and 
while  at  prayer  she  seemed  so  absorbed  that  no  one  cared 
to  interrupt  her.  Reciting  the  Office  her  whole  heart 
and  soul  were  poured  forth  in  the  beautiful  praises  of 
God. 

In  private  conversation  Mother  Genevieve  always  ex- 
cited a  certain  reverence  for  all  things  holy.  She  saw 
God  in  everything  that  happened,  and  helped  others  to 
recognize  His  benign  influence.  If  a  good  woman  in  any 
state  of  life  is  one  of  the  greatest  glories  of  creation, 
surely  the  true  religious  cannot  be  in  the  background. 
This  she  often  impressed  on  her  daughters,  and  frequent- 
ly quoted  the  ancient  philosopher  who  said:  "A  little 
thing  gives  perfection,  but  perfection  is  not  a  little 
thing." 

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SAINT  XAVIER'S— CHICAGO 

She  reminded  the  Sisters  that  nothing  in  human  nature 
is  so  God-like  as  the  disposition  to  do  good  to  our  fellow 
creatures ;  but  that  no  amount  of  proficiency  in  languages, 
arts  and  sciences  is  of  any  value  unless  crowned  by  such 
virtues  as  tend  to  improve  the  morals  of  others  and  make 
them  wise  and  good. 

Regarding  silence,  she  frequently  dwelt  on  this  great 
help  in  the  religious  life,  and  impressed  on  the  minds 
of  the  Sisters  that  there  can  be  no  true  recollection  with- 
out it.  "Silence,"  she  would  say,  "is  the  ornament  of 
religious  souls  and  as  it  is  so  easy  to  offend  in  speech,  we 
should  be  careful  to  keep  strict  watch  over  our  words.  If 
we  are  silent  and  recollected  we  will  pray  well.  We 
should  endeavor  to  cherish  a  love  for  silence  and  to  keep 
the  mind  occupied  with  something  that  will  tend  to  our 
greater  perfection." 

"Our  dear  Lord  is  our  model,  and  we  should  learn  from 
His  beautiful  example  how  to  be  recollected,  how  to  pray 
and  how  to  deny  ourselves." 

"How  many  times  in  the  day  we  meet  with  opportuni- 
ties for  self-denial.  Let  us  then  take  up  our  cross  and 
follow  Him  who  said:  My  soul  is  sorrowful  even  unto 
death !  What  depths  of  sorrow  in  these  words !  We  can 
console  His  yearning  Heart  by  doing  every  little  act  as 
perfectly  as  possible  for  His  dear  sake. 

"Doing  little  things  well  will  help  us  to  do  greater 
things  when  He  wills  it.  Sometime  in  our  lives  we  will 
meet  with  something  hard  to  bear,  but  no  matter  what 
it  is,  if  we  take  it  from  His  hand  and  bear  it  cheerfully, 
or  at  least  willingly,  it  will  help  us  to  gain  Paradise. 

"We  can  never  take  too  much  pains  when  working 
for  so  great  a  Master,  but  whatever  we  do  if  it  is  not  done 
to  please  Him  it  is  of  no  account  for  eternity.  If  the 
motive  is  good  it  will  be  great  in  His  sight,  no  matter 
how  trifling  the  act. 

"He  knows  how  weak  we  are.  He  sees  our  imperfec- 

189 


SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

tions  and  is  ever  ready  to  forgive  if  we  ask  pardon. 
Worldly  people  are  anxious  to  accumulate  a  fortune,  we 
religious  should  endeavor  with  all  our  strength  to  lay  up 
treasures  in  Heaven.  Little  by  little,  day  after  day,  this 
may  be  done,  and  we  will  be  surprised  when  we  go  into 
eternity  how  many  little  trials  which  we  have  forgotten, 
but  which  we  tried  to  bear  patiently,  will  have  been  placed 
to  our  account.  God  is  so  generous  He  will  let  nothing 
done  for  Him  go  unrewarded." 

A  wonderful  trait  in  Mother  Genevieve's  character  was 
shown  in  her  remarkable  forebearance  under  the  great- 
est provocation.  She  never  was  known  to  say,  "I  told 
you  so."  When  a  mistake  was  made,  it  was  worse  than 
useless  in  her  estimation  to  make  the  offending  party 
miserable  over  it. 

She  never  reproached  anyone  for  her  shortcomings, 
even  though  they  entailed  mortifying  consequences  on 
herself. 

Although  Mother  Genevieve  avoided  reproaching  any- 
one for  shortcomings,  she  always  endeavored  to  correct 
any  abuses  or  infringements  of  rule  that  might  creep  in, 
but  it  was  done  in  so  sweet  and  motherly  a  way,  that  it 
could  not  cause  pain  or  bitterness.  Sister  Mary  Lily 
tells  of  being  called  to  order  by  her  on  a  certain  occasion. 
Rev.  Mother  met  her  one  day  and  said,  "Well,  my  dear, 
I  hear  very  strange  things  about  you."  "Yes,  Rev. 
Mother?"  "I  understand  you  danced  with  the  girls  at 
recreation  last  evening?"  "Yes,  Rev.  Mother,  but  there 
were  only  a  few  little  tots  there  and  they  were  lonely, 
because  all  the  older  ones  had  gone  home."  "Oh!  I  see, 
but  it  didn't  sound  very  appropriate  when  one  of  those 
little  darlings  told  her  parents  in  the  parlor  today  that 
they  had  lots  of  fun,  because  Sister  Mary  Lily  danced 
all  evening  with  them."  Both  enjoyed  a  good  laugh  over 
the  affair,  but  the  dear  little  Sister  was  advised  to  re- 
frain from  indulging  again. 

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SAINT  XAVIER'S— CHICAGO 

Rev.  Mother  knew  how  to  follow  the  Scripture  pre- 
cept: "Be  angry  and  sin  not,"  for  she  was  well  aware 
she  would  have  to  give  an  account  of  her  stewardship,  but 
she  did  not  often  have  recourse  to  this  righteous  indigna- 
tion, feeling  convinced  as  she  expressed  it,  that  an  ounce 
of  honey  is  more  efficacious  than  a  barrel  of  vinegar.  Her 
usual  way  was  to  reason  with  the  individual  until  she 
found  it  was  of  no  avail;  she  was  always  most  logical 
in  her  methods  of  persuasion,  and  spared  no  pains  in 
helping  the  delinquent  to  see  it  from  her  viewpoint.  If 
this  did  not  have  the  desired  effect  and  she  was  obliged  to 
have  recourse  to  her  authority,  she  managed  so  skilfully 
and  so  kindly  that  the  barriers  were  surmounted  almost 
imperceptibly  without  causing  any  friction  or  bitterness* 

When  she  heard  another  criticized  for  very  peculiar 
methods,  she  would  say,  "Let  every  spirit  praise  the 
Lord,"  and  if  remonstrances  followed  she  replied,  "Our 
lights  are  not  always  the  same,  but  the  intention  counts." 

At  one  time  a  certain  local  Superior,  fearing  that  the 
Sisters  were  ovei*worked,  came  to  the  conclusion  that 
something  must  be  curtailed — the  school  duties  could  not 
be  neglected ;  hence  Rev.  Mother,  in  her  kind  but  decisive 
way,  directed  that  the  visitation  of  the  sick  after  hours 
should  be  the  extra  work  to  suffer,  at  least  for  a  time. 
One  good  Sister  undertook  to  ask  Mother  Genevieve  if 
this  was  right.  Her  reply  was  very  significant :  "Sister, 
dear,"  she  said,  "Our  Divine  Lord  spent  thirty  years  in 
Nazareth  without  healing  the  sick  or  raising  the  dead, 
yet  we  know  there  must  have  been  many  good  people 
in  the  neighborhood  who  would  benefit  by  His  ministra- 
tions. Why  did  He  not  visit  them  and  heal  them?  Why? 
His  only  work  or  wish  was  to  do  the  will  of  His  Father — 
to  he  obedient,  let  us  follow  His  example,  and  He  will 
bless  us."  She  fully  understood  the  sublimity,  the  gran- 
deur of  the  virtue  of  obedience  and  all  through  her  life 

191 


; ,  SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

she  practiced  it  in  perfection.  She  was  wont  to  say, 
"Obedience  makes  us  rehgious." 

Those  who  for  many  years  were  nearest  to  this  kind, 
good  Mother  testify  to  her  great  charity,  piety  and  pru- 
dence. Her  faith  and  her  confidence  in  God  made  her 
strong.  Unconsciously  she  imparted  this  strength  to 
others.  One  would  feel  so  safe  when  her  decision  was 
made  being  certain  that  God  spoke  through  her.  She  was 
wholly  divested  of  self.  She  never  put  herself  forward, 
never  claimed  recognition  for  any  success  achieved  by  her 
Community.  Yet  her  children  knew  that  all  good  things 
came  to  them  through  her  prayers.  Her  love  of  regular 
discipline  governed  all  her  actions.  It  might  be  called 
intense.  It  could  well  be  compared  to  that  which  was 
observed  by  the  saints  in  any  religious  order. 

In  all  points  of  the  Rule  she  was  most  exact,  indeed  she 
might  be  looked  upon  as  a  living  Rule,  and  no  one  felt 
free  to  fail  in  her  presence.  Her  exam.ple  in  strict  ob- 
servance all  through  her  religious  life  was  so  admirable 
and  her  reasoning  so  persuasive,  she  was  sometimes  ap- 
pointed by  her  Superior,  even  while  Mistress  of  Novices, 
to  expound  the  Rule  on  certain  occasions  to  the  assembled 
Community.  Her  interpretation  was  always  logical  and 
thoroughly  spiritual,  indeed  the  supernatural  seemed  to 
permeate  her  whole  being  and  to  shine  forth  in  every 
word  and  action.  Her  path  even  then  was  not  without 
its  thorns,  but  she  knew  full  well  the  road  to  Heaven  is 
by  the  way  of  the  cross — so  she  believed,  and  so  she 
taught  others:  to  use  her  own  words,  "We  cannot  go  to 
Heaven  in  a  rocking  chair." 

During  those  many  years  in  the  novitiate  how 
many  tender  souls,  anxious  to  love  and  serve  God, 
were  formed  to  the  religious  life  under  her  saintly  guid- 
ance, her  example  always  confirming  her  words.  Fre- 
quently has  it  been  said  since  her  departure  that  she  was 
never  known  to  violate  the  Rule,  and  it  is  related  that 

192 


SAINT  XAVIER'S— CHICAGO 

St.  John  Berchmans  was  canonized  because  he  had  been 
so  faithful  an  observer  of  the  Rule  of  his  Society.  But 
whether  she  is  honored  by  the  church  or  not,  her  influ- 
ence in  Heaven  has  been  proved  in  many  ways,  both  be- 
fore and  since  her  death.  Truly  did  Archbishop  Quig- 
ley  say  over  her  remains,  "To  this  Community;  to  the 
whole  diocese  she  has  been  a  light  and  it  will  be  impossi- 
ble for  the  Community  to  shake  off  her  spirit."  St.  F.  de 
Sales  said  that  if  he  could  be  free  from  defects  of  char- 
acter fifteen  minutes  before  his  death,  he  would  be  happy ; 
yet  we  know  he  was  a  saint  and  that  self-control  was  a 
very  important  factor  in  his  path  of  holiness.  Mother 
Genevieve  acknowledged  more  than  once  that  it  was 
sometimes  hard  to  keep  her  sensitive  nature  under  con- 
trol, but  how  few  ever  say  any  manifestation  of  it. 

We  are  told  it  requires  great  self-control  not  to  dis- 
play the  authority  which  is  ours  by  right.  Over  thirty 
years  governing  a  large  Community,  she  was  never  dicta- 
torial or  authoritative,  rather  did  she  seem  to  ask  a  favor 
when  she  wanted  anything  done.  And  during  so  many 
years,  we  might  say  up  to  the  time  she  was  placed  at  the 
helm,  Providence  allowed  her  to  have  trials  of  all  kinds. 
She  often  seemed  to  be  the  butt  of  others,  especially  of 
Superiors,  one  of  whom  acknowledged  in  after  years,  how 
she  had  impulsively  and  without  sufficient  reason,  hum- 
bled Mother  Genevieve  before  the  whole  Community  in 
a  very  serious  way.  Another,  without  going  to  extremes, 
often  made  her  the  subject  of  humiliating  criticisms. 

It  may  have  been  because  she  received  every  rebuff  so 
placidly,  so  unconcernedly,  never  showing  either  in  pub- 
lic or  private  that  she  felt  these  uncalled-for  humiliations, 
for  she  certainly  must  have  felt  them,  especially  when 
they  occurred  before  her  novices.  If  remonstrated  with 
for  taking  so  much  without  in  the  least  excusing  her- 
self, she  would  reply :  "What  do  you  mean,  Sister?  It  is 
all  right.    It's  the  will  of  God."    If  the  other  retorted, 

193 


SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

"You  don't  mean  to  say  God  wills  such  things?"  "He 
certainly  wills  me  to  bear  it,"  she  replied,  and  she  would 
listen  to  no  more  on  the  subject  lest  it  would  reflect  in  the 
least  on  her  Superior. 

If  we  consider  patience  as  exercised  by  Mother  Gene- 
vieve, we  cannot  refrain  from  saying  it  was  nothing  short 
of  marvelous.  How  often  was  she  interrupted  in  the 
midst  of  a  business  correspondence  without  indulging  in 
a  frown.  True,  she  would  sometimes  go  right  on  with 
the  writing,  exclaiming  now  and  then,  "Yes,  yes !"  show- 
ing she  was  in  a  hurry  with  her  work,  but  was  trying 
to  pay  attention  to  what  seemed  so  important  to  the  other 
party,  though  to  her  it  must  have  been  mere  child's  play. 

Still  the  time  came  when  she  paid  the  usual  tribute, 
for  the  strain  told  on  the  wonderfully  strong  nerves,  and 
severe  attacks  of  nervous  indigestion  resulted.  At  first 
this  was  a  dilemma  to  her,  as  she  could  not  understand 
how  one  who  had  enjoyed  perfect  health  for  so  many 
years,  should  now  have  to  use  the  greatest  care  regard- 
ing nourishment.  It  was  finally  noticed  this  difficulty 
always  increased  when  it  was  time  to  make  arrangements 
for  the  reopening  of  the  schools,  especially  if  any  import- 
ant changes  formed  part  of  August's  heavy  program. 


194 


CHAPTER  FOURTEEN 

Mother  Genevieve's  last  letter  was  to  Sr. 
Mary  Raphael.  The  handwriting  on  the  wall 
was  not  seen.  Her  sudden  departure  April 
26,  1904.  The  "New  World"  of  May  7,  writes 
at  length  of  it.  Funeral  services  on  the  29th 
attended  by  crowds.  Archbishop  Quigley's 
eloquent  sermon  in  full.  "In  Memoriam" — 
Poem  by  Clo'  Keogh,  Alumna. 


CHAPTER  FOURTEEN 

A  few  days  before  the  final  summons  came,  although 
feeling  far  from  well  Mother  Genevieve  wrote  as  follows : 

April  24,  1904. 
My  Dear  Sister  Mary  Raphael : 

This  is  the  55th  anniversary  of  my  entrance  into  the 
Convent.  I  feel  very  grateful  to  God  for  the  grace  of 
my  holy  vocation,  for  the  many  many  graces  received 
in  more  than  half  a  century,  and  above  all  for  the  great 
grace  of  perseverance.  Pray,  dear  Sister,  that  I  may 
prove  my  gratitude  by  great  fidelity.  Sister  Mary  Louise 
is  going  to  visit  Sister  Mary  Clementine  today  and  will 
be  brought  there  by  those  going  to  All  Saints'  School. 
Will  you  have  the  kindness  to  ask  your  driver  to  bring 
them  home  this  evening? 

With  love  and  a  fervent  God  bless  you  now  and  always, 
Yours  in  Christ, 
SISTER  MARY  GENEVIEVE. 

On  the  second  day  after  this  was  written  Sister  Mary 
Raphael  called  at  the  Convent  on  49th  Street  and  found 
Rev.  Mother  up  and  around  as  usual,  but  complaining 
of  a  pain  about  the  heart.  Yet  nothing  was  thought  of 
it,  which  seems  strange  when  we  remember  she  was  in 
her  seventy-second  year.  It  may  have  been  because  she 
looked  perfectly  well  and  was  a  person  of  splendid 
physique.  Not  one  suspected  that  anything  serious  was 
threatening  the  dearly  loved  Mother.  Not  one  saw  the 
writing  on  the  wall  until  it  was  too  late  to  find  a  remedy. 
God's  ways  are  wonderful.  His  time  had  come  for  the 
final  summons  and  He  permitted  those  who  talked  with 
her  that  last  day  to  see  through  a  glass  darkly,  and  to 

197 


SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

have  no  suspicion  of  what  was  going  on  in  the  eternal 
counsel.  The  Angel  of  Death  was  sent  to  still  the  throb- 
bing heart  which  had  been  so  filled  with  the  milk  of 
human  kindness  for  each  and  all,  especially  for  her  de- 
voted spiritual  daughters.  No  doubt  this  devout  religious 
heard  the  Angelic  host  chanting  the  "Veni  electa  Mea," 
calling  her  to  the  everlasting  union  with  her  Heavenly- 
Spouse. 

It  is  not  surprising  that  for  a  long  time  the  vacant 
chair  in  the  Community-room  and  the  well-used  stall  in 
the  beautiful  chapel  of  her  own  designing,  vacant  after 
so  many  years,  were  constant  reminders  of  the  tender 
Mother  gone  before.  It  all  seemed  so  sad  as  well  as  sud- 
den that  for  some  time  the  ray  of  light  coming  through 
the  heavy  clouds  was  unperceived  by  her  devoted  chil- 
dren. Comfort  came  at  last  in  the  thought  that  she  had 
gone  to  receive  the  reward  of  her  labors.  Her  cares  were 
over  and  she  was  rejoicing  among  the  blessed  in  the  pos- 
session of  all  for  which  she  had  so  long  and  so  fervently 
hoped. 

In  The  New  World  we  find  the  following  on  May  7, 
1904: 

Death  of  Mother  Genevieve  Granger 

Reverend  Mother  Genevieve,  Mother  Superior  of  the 
Sisters  of  Mercy  (St.  Xavier's),  died  suddenly  at  7  P.M. 
She  had  been  suffering  for  more  than  two  years  from  an 
abnormal  condition  of  the  heart,  causing  almost  immedi- 
ate death. 

On  the  day  of  her  decease,  Mother  Genevie^j;e  had 
assisted  at  the  Community  exercises,  from  Meditation  at 
5 :30  A.M.  until  Benediction  at  4 :00  P.M.  She  had  attended 
to  business  as  usual  and  finished  an  important  letter  just 
before  going  to  the  chapel.  However,  during  the  early 
afternoon,  she  had  suffered  severe  pain  in  the  chest  and 

198 


SAINT  XAVIER'S— CHICAGO 

at  4 : 30  P.M.,  in  obedience  to  the  desires  of  the  Sisters,  she 
retired,  hoping  that  rest  and  the  ordinary  remedies  would 
bring  relief  as  in  former  similar  attacks. 

The  Sisters,  having  frequently  seen  Mother  Genevieve 
affected  in  this  way,  were  not  alarmed  until  a  short  time 
before  seven,  when  she  suddenly  became  unconscious,  and 
it  was  but  too  evident  that  death  was  at  hand.  When  the 
Sisters  realized  the  condition  of  their  beloved  Mother, 
their  consternation  and  grief  were  indescribable.  The 
Reverend  D.  J.  Conway  of  Corpus  Christi  Church,  who 
was  hurriedly  summoned,  gave  her  absolution  and  ex- 
treme unction.  As  she  was  a  daily  communicant,  she  had 
received  Holy  Communion  that  morning;  thus,  though 
her  call  was  sudden,  she  was  amply  prepared  for  death ; 
in  truth,  her  life  was  a  preparation,  for  in  her  Commun- 
ity she  was  pre-eminent  for  sanctity.  She  breathed  her 
last  about  seven  o'clock  remaining  unconscious  till  the 
end» 

Mother  Genevieve's  death  is  a  calamity  not  only  to 
her  Community,  but  to  the  Catholic  population  of  Chi- 
cago. She  had  been  a  power  for  good  in  the  Order  of 
Mercy  throughout  the  country.  Her  name  was  a  syno- 
nym for  all  that  is  estimable  in  a  woman  and  a  religious. 
To  her  Community  she  seemed  so  necessary  that  they 
could  not  realize  she  would  ever  be  taken  from  them. 
They  had,  indeed,  repeatedly  seen  her  at  death's  door, 
but  she  had  been  so  often  restored  by  their  prayers  that 
at  last  they  had  almost  come  to  regard  her  in  a  certain 
sense  as  immortal.  How  crushing,  then,  was  the  blow 
which  came  upon  them  in  a  moment!  Only  those  who 
know  the  trials  through  which  Mother  Genevieve  safely 
guided  the  Sisters  of  Mercy  for  so  many  years,  can  under- 
stand the  love  and  the  sorrow  of  the  bereaved  Commun- 
ity. Not  on  flesh  and  blood  was  founded  their  affection 
for  their  superior,  but  on  the  knowledge  and  apprecia- 
tion of  her  worth.    She  was  their  consoler  in  grief,  their 

199 


SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

support  in  discouragement,  their  guide  to  high  and  holy 
things. 

Her  words  were  all  inspiring;  her  prayers,  all  power- 
ful; her  example,  one  grand  lesson  of  religious  perfec- 
tion. For  more  than  fifty  years  she  had  held  offices  of 
superiority,  being  at  different  times  Mistress  of  Novices, 
Mother  Assistant  and  Mother  Superior.  She  was  a  saint ; 
yet  her  sympathies  were  most  human  and  womanly,  as 
could  be  seen  by  her  leniency  and  tenderness  to  the  weak ; 
but  she  was  more  than  human  in  her  spirit  of  self-sacri- 
fice, in  her  lofty  devotedness  to  duty,  in  her  heroic  and 
far-reaching  charity,  in  her  magnificent  trust  in  God  and 
her  uncomplaining  submission  to  His  decrees.  She  was 
humble  in  the  midst  of  honors,  patient  under  the  heaviest 
burdens,  unswervingly  obedient  to  authority,  ever  seek- 
ing to  learn  God's  will,  to  labor  for  His  glory,  and  to  be 
united  to  Him  by  love.  Charity  to  the  neighbor  was  her 
characteristic  virtue,  and  can  we  wonder  that  it  mani- 
fested itself  especially  under  the  lovely  form  of  mercy? 
If  there  was,  perhaps,  a  fault  in  Mother  Genevieve's 
character,  it  might  have  been  that  she  sometimes  erred 
on  the  side  of  Mercy;  yet  which  of  us  can  afford  to  call 
this  a  fault? 

Many  years  ago  an  excellent  priest  remonstrated  with 
Mother  Genevieve  on  what  he  considered  an  unwise  prac- 
tice, that  of  giving  food  to  every  straggler  who  came  beg- 
ging at  her  gates.  'Tather,"  she  replied,  "at  the  day  of 
Judgment,  our  Lord  will  not  have  to  say  to  me,  *I  was 
hungry  and  you  gave  Me  not  to  eat.'  "  Though  by  nature, 
exquisitely  sensitive,  she  seemed  not  to  feel,  or  even  to 
observe  what  might  cause  her  a  wound;  so  that  only 
those  who  knew  her  best  could  realize  the  pain  which  a 
serene  countenance  so  gracefully  concealed. 

As  for  Mother  Genevieve's  business  abilities,  we  can 
only  say,  that  in  a  woman  who,  from  her  sixteenth  year, 
had  lived  in  the  retirement  of  a  Convent,  they  were  sim- 

200 


SAINT  XAVIER'S— CHICAGO 

ply  marvellous.  Her  foresight  in  forming  her  plans,  her 
tact  in  management,  her  courage  in  meeting  difficulties, 
and  her  success  in  surmounting  obstacles  can  only  be 
explained  by  saying  God  was  ever  working  with  her,  and 
by  His  grace  she  was  what  she  was. 

She  has  gone — gone  forever  from  this  world,  and  oh! 
how  she  will  be  missed  by  all  who  knew  and  loved  her! 
She  is  mourned  not  by  her  sorrowing  Community  alone, 
though  theirs  is  the  greatest  grief;  far  and  wide  her 
charity  extended  to  struggling  Communities  of  her  own 
and  of  other  orders,  as  well  as  to  the  poor,  the  suffer- 
ing, and  the  erring  throughout  the  land.  Surely  she  is 
enjoying  the  reward  which  her  Heavenly  Spouse  has 
promised  to  those  who  serve  Him  in  His  brethren :  "As 
you  did  it  to  the  least  of  My  brethren,  you  did  it  unto 
Me." 

The  sympathy  of  thousands  is  with  the  Sisters  of 
Mercy  in  this  their  hour  of  sorrow.  How  intense  must 
be  their  grief !  But  they  will  find  their  solace  in  the  Com- 
munion of  Saints  and  in  the  compassionate  Heart  of  their 
beloved  Spouse.  To  each  and  every  member  of  the  Com- 
munity the  most  tender  condolence  is  lovingly  offered. 
Great  as  their  sorrow  is,  the  Mourners  have  a  blessed 
consolation  in  the  remembrance  of  their  Mother's  saintly 
life,  in  the  certainty  that  she  is  still  with  them  in  spirit 
and  interceding  for  them  on  high;  in  their  determina- 
tion to  live  by  her  counsels  and  example,  and  in  the  bliss- 
ful confidence  of  being  at  last,  reunited  with  her  in  the 
Bosom  of  God. 

PATRICIA. 

The  funeral  services  took  place  on  Friday,  April  29,  at 
10:00  A.M.  The  chapel  was  crowded  with  friends  of  the 
Community,  relatives  of  Mother  Genevieve,  visiting  re- 
ligious of  the  Order  of  Mercy  and  of  other  orders.  Mother 
Genevieve's  relatives  who  were  present  were:  Sister 
Mary  Alexis  Granger,  sister;  Sister  Mary  of  the  Sacred 

201 


SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

Heart,  Granger;  Sister  Mary  Neri,  Gadbois,  and  Sister 
Mary  Thomas,  Bergeron,  nieces,  of  St.  Xavier's  Academy ; 
two  brothers  and  their  wives,  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Ambrose 
Granger;  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Peter  Granger;  Rev.  Ambrose 
Granger,  Kankakee;  Rev.  William  Granger,  St.  Joseph's, 
Kankakee;  Hon.  Alexis  Granger,  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Henry 
Granger,  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Geo.  Granger,  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Peter 
Gadbois,  M.  Harvey  Legris,  Mrs.  D.  Granger,  Miss 
Josephine  Bergeron  of  Kankakee,  Mr.  Alfred  Ferrier, 
Miss  Helen  Marie  Ferrier,  Mr.  Rene  Ferrier,  Mr.  and 
Mrs.  P.  Fortin  and  Miss  Genevieve  Fortin  of  Chicago, 
nephews  and  nieces. 

The  Office  for  the  Dead  was  sung  in  alternate  verses  by 
a  choir  of  priests,  in  the  organ  gallery,  and  an  immense 
number  of  clergymen  in  the  sanctuary.  Among  the  lat- 
ter were  the  Most  Reverend  James  Edward  Quigley, 
Archbishop  of  Chicago;  Right  Reverend  P.  J.  Muldoon, 
Right  Reverend  A.  J.  McGavick,  Right  Reverend  Maurice 
Burke  of  St.  Joseph,  Mo.,  Mons.  Legris  of  Kankakee. 

The  Office  was  follov/ed  by  Pontifical  Requiem  Mass. 
Celebrant,  Right  Rev.  P.  J.  Muldoon;  deacon.  Rev.  A. 
Granger,  nephew  of  the  deceased;  sub-deacon.  Rev.  W. 
Granger,  nephew  of  the  deceased ;  chaplains  to  Most  Rev. 
Archbishop,  Rev.  H.  McGuire,  Rev.  C.  Feehan,  O.  C.  C. ; 
assistant  priest,  Rev.  J.  Dunne;  masters  of  ceremonies, 
Rev.  J.  Bowen,  Dr.  E.  Keough;  chaplains  to  Right  Rev. 
Burke,  Rev.  J.  McGavick,  Rev.  J.  Gillan;  chaplains  to 
Right  Rev.  A.  McGavick,  Rev.  M.  Dorney,  Rev.  Mauritius, 
0.  S.  F. ;  sermon  and  absolution,  His  Grace,  Most  Rev. 
J.  E.  Quigley;  master  of  the  Office  ceremonies,  Rev.  H. 
O'Gara  McShane. 

The  music  was  furnished  by  priests,  who  kindly  and 
effectively  supplied  the  place  of  the  usual  convent  choir. 
The  Reverend  F.  Perry  presided  at  the  organ.  Rev.  J. 
Callaghan,  Rev.  P.  W.  Dunne,  Rev.  J.  Dore,  Rev.  D.  Con- 
way, Rev.  J.  Nawn,  Rev.  E.  Dunne,  Rev.  E.  Bourget,  Rev. 

202 


SAINT  XAVIER'S— CHICAGO 

L.  A.  Erhard,  Rev.  B.  Heany  and  Rev.  E.  Rice,  composed 
the  choir. 

The  funeral  sermon  was  preached  by  the  Archbishop. 
We  can  give  but  a  summary : 

"It  is  said  by  a  great  Apostle  that  those  who 
have  ruled  well  amongst  us  in  the  Church  of  God, 
are  worthy  of  double  honor.  Primarily  these  words 
are  applied  to  those  who  rule  in  high  places  in  the  Church 
— Pontiffs,  bishops  and  priests.  Yet  they  can  also  be  fitly 
applied  to  those  who  rule  over  the  lesser  governments, 
the  smaller  republics  within  the  Church,  established  for 
the  good  of  souls  and  the  spread  of  God's  kingdom.  Those 
who  rule  well  in  these  smaller  governments  of  either  men 
of  women  are  truly  deserving  of  honor.  We  are  assem- 
bled here  to  pay  the  last  respects  to  one  who  was  such 
a  ruler  during  nearly  the  whole  of  her  life,  and  I  am 
pleased  to  see  so  many  of  the  clergy  and  the  laity  assem- 
bled to  give  her  this  honor.  Mother  Genevieve's  life  was 
a  wonderful  one;  from  the  time  when  her  young  soul 
in  all  its  vigor  and  fervor  consecrated  itself  to  God,  even 
to  the  day  when  it  passed  away  from  earth,  it  was,  exclu- 
sive of  all  else,  actuated  by  zeal  for  the  glory  of  God  and 
the  spreading  of  His  kingdom. 

"Many  are  now  listening  who  remember  that  time, 
more  than  fifty  years  ago,  when  a  fervent  young  novice 
in  all  humility,  with  no  anticipation  of  the  great  things 
destined  for  her,  solemnly  dedicated  her  life  to  the  works 
of  mercy.  She  thought  only  of  giving  herself  entirely 
to  God  in  humility,  obedience,  and  self-denial,  little 
dreaming  that  she  was  to  become  in  after  years  the  be- 
loved and  revered  of  all.  In  a  short  time  after  her  pro- 
fession, she  had  increased  so  much  in  the  esteem  of  her 
Community,  that  she  was  appointed  Mistress  of  Novices, 
the  most  important  office  in  any  Community.  Her  duty 
was  to  train  the  young  in  the  religious  life ;  to  teach  them 
the  practice  of  poverty,  chastity  and  obedience;  to  lead 

203 


SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

them  on  the  path  of  sanctity  by  word  and  example. 
Having  for  years  faithfully  served  the  Community  in 
this  important  charge,  closely  observed  by  her  com- 
panions in  religion,  who  watched  her  coming  in  and 
going  out,  to  whom  her  life  was  an  open  book,  she  was 
adjudged  fitted  for  the  office  of  Mother  Superior. 

"No  greater  praise  can  be  given  to  those  charged 
with  important  aff'airs  than  the  fact  that  they  have 
won  the  approbation  of  the  companions  with  whom 
they  are  in  daily  and  intimate  contact.  Thus  was  Mother 
Genevieve  approved  by  God  and  her  Sisters.  So  dis- 
creetly, so  faithfully  did  she  discharge  the  duties  of  her 
office  as  Superior  that  when  the  time  came  requiring  by 
rule  a  change  of  Superior,  her  Community  petitioned  the 
Holy  Father  to  grant  the  dispensation  necessary  for  her 
re-election. 

"Again  and  again  was  this  dispensation  sought  and 
obtained,  until  her  time  in  office  numbered  thirty- 
one  years.  Before  the  last  election,  fearing  that 
the  Sisters  were  about  to  renew  their  application  for  per- 
mission to  reinstate  her,  she  begged  me  to  spare  her, 
urging  that  her  strength  was  failing,  her  days  drawing 
to  a  close,  and  that  she  longed  to  devote  the  remainder  of 
her  life  to  preparation  for  death.  The  Sisters  were  not 
willing  to  give  her  up  yet;  they  begged  that  at  least  for 
one  more  term  they  should  have  her  guidance  and  sup- 
port ;  again  recourse  was  had  to  the  highest  authority  on 
earth,  again  the  petition  was  granted;  and  with  the 
approbation  of  friends,  priests,  Bishops  and  the  Holy 
Father  himself.  Mother  Genevieve  was  once  more  inaugu- 
rated as  Mother  Superior  of  her  Community.  In  her 
sublime  spirit  of  obedience  and  humility,  she  submitted 
to  bear  the  cross  a  little  longer.  To  lay  these  facts  before 
you,  my  friends,  is  sermon  enough.  No  more  could  be 
said  than  is  spoken  by  these  repeated  elections. 

"I  knew  her  but  a  short  time,  but  it  was  sufficient  to 

204 


SAINT  XAVIER'S— CHICAGO 

make  me  recognize  her  worth  and  convince  me  that  the 
choice  of  her  Community  was  a  wise  one.  Those  who 
knew  her  for  so  many  years  can  testify  with  me  that  there 
was  in  the  government  of  the  humble,  unassuming 
Mother  Genevieve,  a  clear  evidence  that  she  was  chosen 
by  God  Himself  to  rule  as  Superior  of  the  Sisters  of 
Mercy  in  this  great  Archdiocese  of  Chicago.  Hers  was 
the  sagacious  mind,  which  could  see  in  a  moment,  as  by 
a  flash  of  inspiration,  what  was  best  to  be  done;  and 
results  ever  proved  that  her  decision  was  not  only  wise, 
but  that  her  wisdom  and  her  light  came  from  God  Him- 
self. In  the  use  of  authority  she  was  gentle  and  meek, 
yet  she  combined  firmness  with  justice  in  every  case.  To 
her  superiors,  the  Prelates  of  the  Church,  she  was  humbly 
and  implicitly  obedient.  With  child-like  docility  she 
would  seek  direction,  and  when  the  decision  was  given  she 
obeyed  promptly  and  cheerfully,  setting  aside  her  owb 
views,  and  every  claim  except  that  of  lawful  authority. 

"Thus,  because  she  knew  so  well  how  to  obey,  she  had 
the  gift  successfully  to  command.  She  ruled  by  love, 
attracting  those  under  her  direction,  so  that  it  was  their 
joy  to  be  subject  to  her.  She  was  simple  in  manner,  ten- 
der to  the  afflicted,  helpful  to  the  weak,  wisely  directing 
the  Community  as  a  body,  and  each  individual  in  the 
manner  best  for  each. 

"Although  Mother  Genevieve  has  passed  away  from 
this  world,  her  influence  remains  and  shall  remain.  There 
are  characters  which  impress  themselves  so  indelibly  on 
the  hearts  and  souls  of  their  fellow  beings,  that  it  may 
be  said  they  never  die ;  they  live  in  their  works  long  after 
their  physical  death. 

"In  this  way.  Mother  Genevieve  lives  and  will  live  for 
many,  many  years  to  come;  it  may  not  be  too  much  to 
say,  that  she  will  live  in  her  works  as  long  as  time  shall 
last.  She  shall  live,  not  only  by  the  grand  material  works 
which  have  made  her  Community  the  glory  of  our  city,> 

205 


SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

but  still  nobler  shall  be  her  life  in  the  work  she  has  done 
in  souls.  She  has  impressed  her  character  for  all  time 
upon  the  Sisters  of  Mercy  in  Chicago.  When  year  after 
year  has  passed  away,  her  spirit  will  be  ruling  her  Com- 
munity, impressing  itself  still  upon  members  who  shall 
know  her  only  by  the  fame  of  her  virtues.  Such  is  the 
blessed  life  of  a  character  like  Mother  Genevieve's,  and 
thus  God  uses  these  little  republics  and  their  wise  rulers 
to  raise  up  men  and  women  who  shall  work  for  souls  and 
for  His  glory.  Not  only  within  their  own  Communities 
in  this  great  good  accomplished.  Many  who  may  fill  high 
places  in  the  Church,  who  may  do  grand  service  to  God 
and  to  humanity,  can  justly  say  that  their  earliest  and 
best  impressions  were  received  from  such  souls  as  Mother 
Genevieve's. 

"Following  her  example,  and  animated  by  her  spirit, 
her  Community  will  continue  her  glorious  work ;  she  will 
be  with  them  by  her  memory,  and  still  more  by  her  inter- 
cession, and  the  blessing  of  Heaven  shall,  in  the  future, 
as  in  the  past,  be  with  the  labors  of  the  Sisters  of  Mercy." 

The  Archbishop  closed  his  discourse  by  an  appeal  for 
prayers  on  behalf  of  Mother  Genevieve's  soul,  that  any 
stain  she  might  have  contracted  by  her  inevitable  inter- 
course with  the  world  may  soon  be  washed  away,  and  her 
happy  spirit  be  admitted  to  the  vision  of  God. 

After  the  Mass  the  last  absolution  was  given  by  His 
Grace.  The  Sisters,  relatives  and  friends  took  a  farewell 
view  of  the  beloved  remains,  and  the  funeral  procession 
left  the  Convent.  Ten  carriages  were  occupied  by  the 
Right  Reverend  and  Reverend  clergy,  and  thirty-two  by 
members  of  the  Community  and  the  visiting  Sisters. 

The  Sisters  of  Mercy  are  deeply  grateful  to  many 
amongst  the  clergy  and  laity  who  bestowed  spiritual  and 
material  consolation  during  this  great  sorrow.  Whilst 
they  earnestly  solicit  prayers  for  the  soul  of  their  beloved 
Mother,  they  confidently  assure  their  friends  that  Mother 

206 


SAINT  XAVIER'S— CHICAGO 

Genevieve  will  generously  reward  such  charity  by  obtain- 
ing for  her  benefactors  the  graces  most  desirable  for  soul 
and  body.  R.LP. 

A  NOBLE  SISTER  OF  MERCY 

Tribute  Paid  to  the  Memory  of  Mother  Genevieve  by  Mr. 

W.  J.  Onahan,  Whose  Deceased  Wife  Had  Been  a 

Pupil  of  the  Sisters  of  Mercy  in  Chicago 

What  a  throng  of  memories  and  old-time  associations 
are  brought  to  mind  by  the  death  of  the  dear  and 
venerated  religious  who  was  suddenly  called  to  her  well- 
earned  reward  the  past  week? 

During  fifty  years  and  more  Mother  Genevieve  has 
been  a  familiar  name  and  figure  in  Convent  life  and  Con- 
vent work  in  Chicago.  She  may  almost  be  said  to  have 
seen  the  beginning  of  the  Catholic  life  of  the  city ;  at  all 
events  she  saw  it  in  its  infancy,  and  how  important  has 
been  her  share  and  part  in  the  subsequent  wonderful 
growth  and  propagation  of  Catholic  religious  life  and 
Catholic  good  works  within  her  sphere  let  it  be  my  office 
to  recall,  imperfectly  though  I  shall  acquit  myself  of  the 
task. 

It  was  on  the  Feast  of  Our  Lady  of  Mercy,  1846,  that 
the  little  band  of  Sisters  opened  the  first  Convent  in 
Chicago  under  the  inspiration  and  guidance  of  Bishop 
Quarter,  who  from  the  day  of  his  first  arrival  as  pastor 
of  the  frontier  town,  had  nourished  the  project.  The 
Bishop  was  signally  fortunate  in  the  Sisters  selected  for 
the  new  foundation.  The  memory  of  the  first  Superior, 
Mother  Agatha,  remained  for  long  in  grateful  benediction 
in  the  hearts  of  the  early  settlers,  Protestant  as  well  as 
Catholic.  How  often  in  my  boyhood  days  have  I  listened 
to  stories  of  the  influence  Mother  Agatha  exercised  over 
all  who  came  to  know  her.  The  girls  in  those  days  never 
tired  telling  of  the  charm  and  fascination  in  the  charac- 

207 


SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

ter  and  qualities  of  Mother  Agatha — her  little  Community 
loved  her  as  a  tender  and  affectionate  mother ;  her  pupils, 
I  may  say,  worshipped  her,  and  the  people  in  general  who 
were  brought  in  contact  with  the  Sisters  in  this  first 
Chicago  Convent  regarded  Mother  Agatha  with  respect 
and,  I  may  say,  wonder,  for  at  that  early  period  few 
people  in  the  West  had  any  knowledge  of  nuns  and 
Convent  life. 

Mother  Agatha,  young  though  she  was — only  24 — had 
the  rare  capacity  of  being  able  to  distinguish  genuine 
merit  and  of  employing  it  in  the  most  fitting  sphere.  She 
was  favored  in  her  associates  and  in  the  novices  who 
early  sought  admission.  The  dreaded  cholera  visited 
Chicago  in  1854.  The  Sisters  of  Mercy  were  the  first  to 
offer  their  services  for  the  care  of  the  victims  of  the 
epidemic — they  were  at  the  bedside  of  the  sufferers  day 
and  night.  How  devotedly  they  were  employed  in  this 
trying  emergency  is  shown  in  the  fact  that  several  of 
the  Sisters  fell  victims  to  the  epidemic  by  their  self- 
sacrificing  devotedness  in  this  sad  juncture. 

The  dearly  loved  Mother  Agatha  was  one  of  these. 
What  a  trial  for  the  young  and  struggling  Community! 
But  there  were  other  brave  hearted  Sisters  who  did  not 
hesitate  to  go  on  with  the  work.  Mother  Paula,  one  of 
the  original  band,  succeeded  in  authority,  but  she,  too, 
passed  away  within  a  year.  Mother  Vincent  was  the 
next  Superior.  After  a  single  term  she  was  succeeded  by 
Mother  Francis.  Who  is  there  of  ante-war  times  that  does 
not  recall  Mother  Frances?  She  was,  I  venture  to  say,  one 
recall  Mother  Frances?  She  was,  I  venture  to  say,  one 
of  the  best-known  figures  in  the  life  of  Chicago  during 
her  nearly  twenty  years  of  administration  as  local  Supe- 
rior. It  was  Mother  Frances  who  sent  the  first  band  of 
Sisters  of  Mercy  from  the  West  to  minister  to  the  sick 
and  wounded  soldiers  in  the  early  days  of  the  Civil  War. 
She  was  an  ardent  Unionist  and  was  personally  known 

208 


SAINT  XAVIER'S— CHICAGO 

to  many  of  the  leading  commanders  of  the  Union  armies. 
President  Lincoln  and  General  Grant  gave  public  testi- 
mony to  the  importance  of  the  services  rendered  by  the 
Sisters  in  hospitals  as  well  as  on  the  battlefield. 

What  I  have  already  written  is,  I  may  say,  a  necessary 
introduction  in  order  to  make  plain  the  character  and 
importance  of  the  work  to  which  Mother  Genevieve  suc- 
ceeded, more  than  thirty  years  ago.  That  work  had  been 
pioneered  by  other  Superiors,  nevertheless  from  the 
earliest  days  Mother  Genevieve  may  be  said  to  have  had 
an  important  share  and  influence  in  guiding  the  fortunes 
of  the  Community  in  Chicago.  Mother  Genevieve  was  a 
"born  counsellor."  From  her  earliest  days  as  Novice  and 
Sister  she  was  accounted  wise  and  thoughtful  beyond  her 
years. 

The  gravity  and  solidity  of  her  character  was  signally 
demonstrated  by  her  early  appointment  as  "mistress  of 
Novices,"  perhaps  the  most  weighty  and  responsible  office 
in  Community  life,  since  so  much  depends  on  the  pru- 
dence, discrimination  and  judgment  of  the  nun  who  has 
the  future  of  the  Community,  thus  in  a  sense,  committed 
to  her  powers  of  discernment. 

In  this  capacity  Mother  Genevieve,  it  is  acknowledged, 
showed  the  rarest  judgment.  She  was  a  model  of  firm- 
ness, wisdom  and  capacity.  When  at  length  the  reins  of 
government  were  placed  in  her  hands,  following  the 
transfer  of  Mother  Frances  to  Independence,  Iowa, 
Mother  Genevieve  quickly  demonstrated  her  high  fitness 
for  administration. 

Up  to  the  period  of  the  Chicago  fire  the  sphere  and 
work  of  the  Sisters  of  Mercy  had  been  gradually  and 
steadily  enlarging.  The  familiar  Convent  on  Wabash 
Avenue  had  gone  down  in  the  wreck  of  October,  1870,  a 
great  Academy  at  Twenty-Ninth  Street,  the  finest  build- 
ing of  the  kind  in  the  city,  took  its  place.  The  Hospital 
at  Calumet  Avenue  and  Twenty-Sixth  Street  had  grown 

209 


SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

from  a  small  foundation,  to  meet  necessary  conditions, 
until  it  subsequently  covered  the  block  with  newer  and 
superior  appointments. 

Meanwhile  the  work  of  the  Sisters  of  Mercy  in  the 
parochial  schools  had  gone  on  widening  out  and  extending 
on  every  side.  What  shall  I  say  of  the  great  Academy, 
Saint  Xavier's,  which  was  distinctively  Mother  Gene- 
vieve's work?  Who  that  has  seen  it  but  must  have 
marveled  at  the  ability  and  capacity  brought  to  bear  in 
planning  and  carrying  to  completion  this  splendid  educa- 
tional and  Convent  edifice.  And  greater  still  would  be 
the  marvel  were  it  known  the  financial  and  other  difficul- 
ties and  obstacles  which  had  to  be  overcome  in  carrying 
forward  this  great  undertaking.  It  was  a  woman  who 
planned  and  accomplished  this  arduous  task,  and  that 
woman  was  Mother  Genevieve! 

In  these  days  of  gi'eat  buildings  and  stupendous 
undertakings  in  business,  the  erection  of  a  large 
Convent  may  not  impress  the  average  reader  as  an 
affair  of  magnitude  or  involving  difficulty.  But  if 
we  stop  to  consider  that  in  the  case  of  a  religious 
community  the  resources  come,  not  from  stockholders  nor 
from  the  general  public,  but  from  the  savings  and  the 
economies  of  the  nuns,  we  can  readily  see  how  wonderful 
must  be  the  management  in  these  communities  to  bring 
about  the  results  accomplished.  Non-Catholics,  as  I  know, 
often  believe  that  "the  Church"  does  these  things,  that 
it  is  the  Pope  or  the  Bishop  who  provides  the  means! 
Catholics  in  general  know  that  the  religious  communities 
here  and  elsewhere  are  and  must  be  self-sustaining,  each 
relying  on  its  own  resources  of  income;  and  the  income 
is  usually  meagre  enough. 

Without  outside  assistance  Mother  Genevieve,  by  her 
orderly  management,  was  enabled  to  carry  on  the  various 
educational  and  charitable  works  in  charge  of  the  Sisters 
of  Mercy  in  this  city.    But  after  all  it  was  not  in  building 

210 


SAINT  XAVIER'S— CHICAGO 

or  in  the  acquisition  of  land  that  the  lamented  Superior's 
highest  and  best  capacity  is  demonstrated.  No,  it  is  seen 
in  the  Community  she  governed  so  long,  and  in  the  fruits 
of  the  religious  training  and  the  educational  qualifications 
of  the  thousands  of  girls  who  have  gone  forth  from  the 
academies  and  schools  of  the  Sisters  of  Mercy.  These 
constitute  the  highest  and  most  effective  testimony  to 
Mother  Genevieve's  capacity  and  fitness  for  her  office 
and  mission. 

The  life  of  these  holy  women,  consecrated  to  the 
service  of  God,  is  one  of  the  prodigies,  miracles  of 
religious  vocation  with  which  the  history  of  the  church 
has  made  us  familiar,  but  which  is  nevertheless  an 
enigma,  a  mystery  to  the  worldling.  That  life  is  one  of 
prayer,  of  incessant  labor,  of  self-sacrifice;  so  it  is  with 
all  the  religious  communities.  Within  the  calm  security 
of  her  happy  Convent  home  the  Sister  of  Mercy  pursues 
her  heavenly  mission  of  charity  and  good  will  undisturbed 
by  the  passions  and  commotions  of  the  busy,  restless 
world,  training  the  young  in  principles  of  religion,  virtue 
and  honor,  sheltering  the  orphan  and  the  foundling,  com- 
forting helpless  old  age,  nursing  the  sick,  reclaiming  the 
wayward  and  the  erring.  Such  is  the  routine  of  the  nun's 
daily  life,  and  this  the  mission  of  the  religious  orders. 

These  orders  of  holy  women  have  covered  the  earth 
with  shining  testimonies  of  their  zeal  and  peopled  heaven 
with  saints.  It  was  to  this  service  Mother  Genevieve  con- 
secrated her  life  more  than  fifty  years  ago  in  our  own 
city,  and  here,  in  our  midst,  may  be  seen  some  of  the 
precious  fruits  of  her  self-sacrificing  labors.  How  effec- 
tive those  labors  have  been  her  sorrowing  Sisters  and 
children  will  testify.  Archbishops  and  Bishops  in 
authority  over  her  and  her  Community  have  given 
repeated  proofs  of  their  confidence  and  their  respect  for 
her  judgment  and  capacity.  Priests  were  won  to  esteem 
her  as  an  ideal  Mother  Superior;  and  even  hard-headed 

211 


SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

men  of  affairs,  who  were  brought  into  business  oppor- 
tunities with  the  Convent  or  the  Hospital  marveled  at  her 
unfailing  shrewd  business  judgment  and  her  methodical, 
orderly  methods  which  won  their  admiration.  Mother 
Genevieve's  word  was  as  good  as  a  bond,  passed  into  a 
proverb. 

Her  life — the  life  of  a  Nun  or  Sister  is  a  hidden  life 
of  which  the  world  knows  little.  It  is  an  obscure  life — 
even  in  the  case  of  a  Superior — because  her  appointed 
work  is  removed  from  the  public  gaze.  She  scrupulously 
avoids  notice.  Newspapers  do  not  chronicle  her  doings. 
Even  her  very  name  is  commonly  unknown.  Her  identity 
is  hidden  under  the  title  of  "Sister"  or  "Mother,"  as  the 
case  may  be. 

The  story  of  Mother  Genevieve's  religious  life  and 
experience,  barring  the  burden  of  authority  borne  by  her 
so  many  years,  is  that  of  every  religious.  She  left  the 
world  and  its  allurements,  family,  friends,  society,  ambi- 
tions— all  these  she  freely  surrendered  and  laid  at  the 
holy  altar  of  God  in  her  youth  to  devote  herself  to  this 
service  and  to  the  welfare  of  others. 

The  memory  of  that  dear  reverend  Mother,  I  am  sure, 
will  long  be  cherished  in  Chicago,  and  a  shining  chapter 
in  the  "annals  of  the  Sisters  of  Mercy"  will  be  the  one 
devoted  to  the  life,  the  character  and  the  service  of  the 
venerated  Mother  Genevieve. 

William  J.  Onahan. 

Chicago,  Illinois. 

LINES  FROM  A  SISTER'S  NOTE-BOOK 

"It  is  almost  a  week  since  dear  Rev.  Mother's  face  lit 
up  in  smiles  when  I  went  to  her.  It  was  less  than  three 
hours  before  she  became  unconscious  that  I  then  saw  her 
dear  eyes  for  the  last  time.  I  also  had  a  nice  talk  with 
her  in  the  morning  between  ten  and  eleven  o'clock,  when 
I  showed  her  a  clipping  from  the  paper,  telling  that 

212 


SAINT  XAVIER'S— CHICAGO 

there  was  to  be  a  Requiem  Mass  at  the  Cathedral  for 
the  repose  of  the  souls  of  the  two  boys,  who  were  hanged 
on  the  22nd  of  the  month.  I  asked  her  if  we  might  go 
to  the  Mass,  for  it  would,  no  doubt,  console  their  rela- 
tions; as  usual  her  dear,  charitable  heart  went  out 
immediately  to  the  afflicted  families  and  she  said,  "Yes," 
adding,  "if  it  does  not  interfere  with  your  duties.  Sister." 

"On  Sunday,  a  week  today,  at  evening  recreation,  I 
said,  "Rev.  Mother,  I  had  no  zeal  today  at  the  jail."  She 
looked  surprised,  but  when  I  told  her  we  did  not  neglect 
anything,  she  seemed  pleased  and  said,  'Of  course,  it  was 
hard,  Sister,  about  those  poor  boys,  but  you  must  not  let 
it  interfere  with  your  duty.'  " 

"Dear  Rev.  Mother  loved  each  and  every  one  of  us  and 
appreciated  every  effort  on  our  part  to  do  our  duty.  A 
smile,  a  look  of  approval,  ever  spurred  us  on,  and  she 
was  always  the  good,  kind,  affable  and  loving  Mother, 
never  a  ruler  yet  never  failed  to  rule.  We  can  repay  her ! 
Yes,  by  trying  to  follow  her  example,  and  this  is  all  the 
recompense  I  am  sure  she  would  ask;  she  would  be  too 
humble  to  attribute  it  to  her  example,  but  would  say  to 
each  of  us,  'Dear  Sister,  keep  your  holy  rule.  If  you  keep 
your  rule,  it  will  keep  you.'  Charity  was  the  virtue 
dearest  to  her  loving  heart.  The  pained  look  on  her  ever 
inspiring  countenance  could  suppress  anything  which 
might  cast  a  shadow  on  this,  her  dearest  virtue." 

"Her  charitable  endeavors  for  the  welfare  of  others 
were  not  limited  to  her  own  Community.  Many  instances 
might  be  cited  of  the  substantial  aid  she  so  cheerfully 
rendered  to  other  Sisterhoods.  On  one  occasion  it  came 
to  her  knowledge  that  some  cloistered  nuns,  who  had 
recently  arrived  in  the  city,  were  sadly  in  need  of  the 
necessaries  of  life.  Although  in  very  straightened  cir- 
cumstances, even  in  danger  of  losing  the  Academy  by 
reason  of  a  heavy  mortgage,  she  had  her  grocer  send  a 
wagon-load  of  provisions  of  all  kinds  to  their  immediate 

213 


SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

relief.  By  her  direction  the  poor  were  never  sent  away 
without  food  and  sometimes  her  last  dollar  went  into  the 
pocket  of  a  mendicant.  When  the  Mother  Bursar  would 
remonstrate  with  her  on  what  she  thought  imprudence, 
she  always  smiled  and  said,  "God  will  provide."  This 
was  her  favorite  expression  and  it  would  appear  to  have 
been  verified  in  all  her  undertakings,  as  no  one  ever 
appealed  to  her  in  vain." 

"It  was  sufficient  for  her  to  hear  a  person  was  in  need ; 
at  once  she  tried  to  relieve  the  distress;  in  fact  she  was 
known  as  'The  Little  Mother  of  the  Poor.'  On  one  occa- 
sion she  was  told  of  a  poor  man  who  had  lost  all  he  had 
by  his  investments  in  a  little  business  at  the  time  of  the 
World's  Fair.  At  once  she  sent  two  Sisters  to  see  his 
wife,  v/ho  was  sick;  such  desolation  as  they  found  in 
that  poverty-stricken  home !  The  poor  woman  was  actu- 
ally demented  from  hunger  and  the  husband  would  have 
been  soon  in  the  same  state  had  not  the  Sisters  discovered 
their  famished  condition  and  sent  them  baskets  of  food. 
The  sick  woman  did  not  regain  her  reason,  and  it  was 
almost  impossible  to  have  her  sent  to  a  sanitarium,  as  her 
husband  would  not  for  a  long  time  allow  it.  At  length  it 
was  done  and  work  was  found  for  the  poor  old  man,  who 
blamed  himself  for  the  sad  condition  of  affairs." 

"She  always  held  in  the  greatest  esteem  all  who  were 
consecrated  to  God,  and  her  reverence  for  the  ministers 
of  God  could  not  be  surpassed." 

"Her  fear  of  causing  any  discord  was  remarkable  and 
might  be  illustrated  in  many  ways.  One  example  will 
suffice.  Bishop  John  Foley  of  Detroit  always  visited  the 
Community  when  he  came  to  the  city,  as  he  knew  how 
much  his  dear  deceased  brother,  Bishop  Thomas  Foley, 
was  reverenced  by  the  Sisters. 

"On  one  occasion  he  announced  that  he  would  soon 
ask  for  a  colony,  as  he  was  about  to  build  a  Mercy  Home 
and,  of  course,  he  wanted  no  others  if  it  were  possible 

214 


SAINT  XAVIER'S— CHICAGO 

to  procure  them.  Several  volunteered.  Sister  Mary 
Ignatius  was  very  enthusiastic  and  this  pleased  the  good 
Bishop.  About  six  months  later,  when  the  home  was 
built,  he  wrote  to  Mother  Genevieve  asking  that  she  keep 
her  word  and  send  some  Sisters  at  once.  In  good  faith 
she  went  to  Archbishop  P.  A.  Feehan  and  told  him  all 
about  it,  asking  permission  to  send  the  mission  to  Detroit. 
To  her  surprise  the  Archbishop  said,  "No!  We  have 
enough  of  work  at  home  for  the  Sisters.  We  have  none 
to  spare.'  How  to  announce  this  disappointment  to  Bishop 
Foley  was  a  study,  and  the  Sisters  thought  that  she  ought 
to  give  him  the  plain  facts.  She  however  said,  "No!  I 
will  not  be  the  cause  of  sowing  discord  between  brother 
Prelates,'  and  she  wrote  Bishop  Foley  she  was  sorry  there 
were  no  Sisters  to  spare  and  that  she  was  obliged,  though 
with  great  reluctance,  to  ask  him  to  apply  to  some  other 
Community  for  Sisters.  It  pained  her  very  much  to 
break  her  word,  as  it  was  always  a  striking  note  in  her 
character  never  to  fail  in  this  respect ;  but  she  was  above 
all  else  strictly  obedient  to  lawful  authority,  and  cost  what 
it  would  she  was  never  known  to  fail  in  this  respect. 

"When  reproved  by  any  Superior  for  what  seemed  in 
her  a  fault,  she  instantly  went  on  her  knees  and  without 
excusing  herself  begged  pardon  and  penance.  Once,  when 
she  was  explaining  to  Bishop  Foley  how  she  had  tried  to 
surmount  a  certain  difficulty,  he  exclaimed  ,'Why,  Mother, 
why  did  you  do  that?'  She  dropped  on  her  knees  and 
begged  pardon  for  what  he  seemed  to  look  on  in  a  dispar- 
aging light.  In  fact,  he,  as  well  as  others,  did  not  like  to 
see  this  venerable  religious  in  so  humble  a  position  before 
them. 

"A  certain  Sister  went  to  her  one  day  and  asked  her 
if  some  improvement  could  not  be  made  in  the  diet  of  a 
chronic  invalid,  who  was  given  to  complaining  of  her 
food.  Losing  patience  for  the  moment.  Mother  Genevieve 
replied  shortly,  'That  is  my  affair,  Sister,  not  yours.'  But 

215 


SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

she  did  not  go  to  bed  that  night  until  she  went  and  begged 
that  Sister's  pardon  in  the  most  humble  manner. 

"While  quite  a  young  Sister,  Providence  seemed  to 
prepare  her  for  the  great  work  for  which  He  intended 
her,  as  she  was  not  spared  many  humiliations,  which  she 
always  received  with  perfect  submission. 

"At  one  time  she  was  sent  to  apologize  to  the  pupils  in 
their  refectory  for  some  little  act  of  inattention,  and  she 
carried  out  the  direction  as  sweetly  as  though  it  were 
usual  for  such  penances  to  be  given,  yet  she  was  the  only 
one  required  to  do  this. 

"Often  she  was  obliged  to  stay  up  nearly  all  night  to 
finish  the  work  that  was  given  her,  but  she  arose  as 
promptly  at  the  first  sound  of  the  five  o'clock  bell  as 
though  she  had  enjoyed  her  usual  rest.  Although  always 
an  early  riser,  yet  she  acknowledged  in  her  later  years 
that  she  never  had  become  accustomed  to  it.  What  merit 
she  must  have  acquired  in  all  those  years  of  her  religious 
life!" 

IN  MEMORIAM 

REVEREND  MOTHER  MARY  GENEVIEVE 

No  habitant  of  earth  has  ever  wrought 
With  brain  or  hand  that  which  outlived  the  day. 
Save  as  it  sprang  from  out  the  very  soul. 
Of  his  own  consciousness  brought  face  to  face 
With  naked  truth,  clean  shorn  of  deceit. 
Here  pride  has  no  existence,  finding  naught 
To  feed  upon.    Pride  stalks  with  head  erect. 
Eyes  seeing  only  those  who  chance  to  meet 
His  own  dull  level.    He  who  climbs  aloft 
Must  needs  look  down,  embracing  as  he  looks 
The  lowly  in  his  gaze.    None  live  so  poor, 
But  has  the  wish,  inborn  to  be  a  King 
On  some  one  throne  of  spirit  greatness ;  but 
Here  lies  the  test  of  mighty  purpose  that 

216 


SAINT  XAVIER'S— CHICAGO 

We  make  no  soft  selection  of  a  path, 

Moss  strewn  to  save  our  feet  the  passing  bruise. 

True  Christian  chivalry  creates  a  realm, 

Where  every  woman  reigns  an  uncrowned  queen; 

Right  well  such  fair  environment  becomes 

Her  fine  nature  of  finer  clay. 

Yet  when  there  thunders  from  the  Book  of  books 

A  summons  to  put  forth  a  perfect  type. 

It  asks  no  sentimental  sainthood,  but 

Demands,  "Show  me  a  valiant  woman !    One 

Whose  strength  will  fail  not  with  life's  failing  joys, 

But  dare  to  look  into  eternity!" 

The  mind  divorces  strength  from  beauty,  yet 
Full  force  is  full  completion  of  each  part, 
A  just  development  of  every  line, 
The  Catholicity  of  noble  souls, 
"Believing  all  things — hoping  all,  in  faith, 
Enduring  all."    Yea,  far  surpassing  these, 
Accepting  all  (This  tribute  the  crown 
Of  full  perfection),  stretching  wide  the  arms 
Of  Christian  fortitude  to  gather  close 
In  love  and  resignation,  all  that  comes 
From  God's  strong  hand  to  be  our  portion  here. 
When  glimpses  of  high  purpose  cross  our  ken, 
And  when  our  eyes  regain  their  normal  sight. 
Withdrawn  again  to  their  own  darker  sphere 
From  this  unwonted  brightness,  there  we  see 
Such  souls  are  God's  way  of  marking  time, 
By  light,  no  shadow,  on  life's  dial  stone. 

This  epitaph  the  passing  years  must  write 

Above  the  new-made  grave  in  Calvary, 

That  those  who  come,  with  saddened  hearts  to  weep. 

May  rise  refreshed  as  from  a  strengthening  draught. 

Then  vigor  bringing  to  their  daily  need 

Of  self-forgetting  Christianity. 

Clo.'  Keogh,  Alumna. 
217 


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Children's  Circle 


Art  Exhibit 


CHAPTER  FIFTEEN 

Letters  of  condolence  from  many  persons. 
Impressions  of  many  kind  friends.  "In  Mem- 
ory of  Rev.  Mother  M.  Genevieve" — Alumna. 
Mr.  Wm.  Onahan,  whose  wife  was  a  pupil, 
writes  to  the  Sisters.  "My  Rosary,"  a  poem 
by  Alumna  of  1880. 


CHAPTER  FIFTEEN 


A  few  of  the  many  kind  letters  of  sjrmpathy  received 
from  religious  after  Rev.  Mother  Genevieve's  departure 
are  inserted  here: 

Convent  of  Mercy,  Omaha,  May  1,  1904. 
Mother  M.  Scholastica  and  Community. 

My  Very  Dear  Mother  and  Sisters:  Since  my  hearing 
of  the  sad,  sad  news  of  the  sudden  death  of  your  beloved 
Reverend  Mother,  my  thoughts  have  been  ever  with  you, 
and  my  prayers  for  you  and  for  the  dear  departed.  Accept 
my  most  sincere  and  heartfelt  sympathy  in  this  your 
great  sorrow.  I  cannot  tell  you  all  that  is  in  my  heart 
for  each  and  every  one  of  you,  for  I  well  know  how  deep 
and  holy  was  your  love  and  veneration  for  your  saintly 
Mother,  who  so  well  deserved  it  all. 

May  our  sweet  Lord  and  Lady  of  Good  Counsel,  who 
stole  your  Treasure  from  you,  be  your  strength  and  con- 
solation in  your  great  bereavement. 

My  life  was  made  the  sweeter  that  I  knew  and  loved 
her,  and  now  that  she  is  gone,  I  feel  that  I  have  lost  one 
of  the  kindest  friends  I  have  ever  known.  Her  dear 
memory  shall  ever  be  fondly  cherished  in  my  heart.  How 
true,  "Earth's  great  loss  is  Heaven's  greater  gain." 

I  shall  not  attempt  to  eugolize  the  great  and  admirable 
qualities  of  your  beloved  Mother.  I  shall  leave  that  vast 
subject  to  more  able  pens.  I  shall  only  say  that  to  know 
her  was  to  love  her.  This  is  the  reason  my  heart  aches 
for  you,  my  dearly  loved  friends ;  for  how  well  you  must 
have  known  her,  and  how  you  must  have  loved  her ! 

My  dear  friends,  now  that  your  "sorrow's  crown  of 
sorrow"  presses  so  heavily  on  your  weary  brows,  I  am 
sure  that  you  will  try  to   rejoice  with  your  beloved 

221 


SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

Mother;  for  what  a  sweet  welcome  was  hers  from  the 
Spouse,  Whom  she  so  well  loved  and  served  for  over  fifty 
golden  years.  She  heard  her  "Veni,  Sponsa  Christi"  and 
could  not  resist  the  sweetness  of  that  Voice. 

"Not  for  long  will  the  parting  be, 

Look  upward  then  to  your  home  in  Heaven ; 

For  there  shall  your  tears  be  wiped  away, 

And  the  lost  one  back  to  your  love  be  given." 

Hoping  that  our  dear  Lord  will  strengthen  and  console 
you  all,  promising  many  prayers  and  begging  a  little 
share  in  yours,  I  am,  with  sincere  love  and  sympathy, 

Yours  affectionately  in  Jesus  Christ, 

Sister  M.  Agnes. 

Mother  Mary  Scholastica. 

Dear  Mother  and  Community:  Permit  me  to  express 
to  you  my  deepest  sympathy  in  the  hour  of  darkest 
sorrow. 

Not  alone  the  religious  world,  but  the  entire  city  where 
she  labored  so  long,  must  share  in  the  great  loss  which 
you  now  sustain  in  the  death  of  dear  Rev.  Mother  M. 
Genevieve.  May  our  dear  Lord  comfort  you  all,  and  grant 
the  prayers  which  we  have  offered  for  your  loved  Mother 
since  hearing  of  the  sudden  and  fatal  visit  of  the  "dread 
messenger"  to  your  Convent  home.  Begging  your  prayers 
tiiat  we  in  our  turn  may  be  ready  at  the  first  call  to  meet 
our  Spouse,  and  that  if  our  poor  hands  are  not  as  full 
as  those  of  your  dear  Mother  we  may  be  not  less  assured 
of  a  "welcome  home." 

Again  expressing  to  you  my  sincere  and  affectionate 
sympathy,  I  am  sincerely  in  the  Sacred  Heart, 

Sister  Mary  Alphonsus. 

Mount  St.  Mary's  Seminary,  Omaha,  Nebr. 

May  1,  1904. 

222 


SAINT  XAVIER'S— CHICAGO 

St.  Joseph's  Seminary,  Kankakee,  III. 

Reverend  Sisters  of  Mercy, 

Saint  Francis  Xavier  Academy,  Chicago. 
Reverend  and  Dear  Sisters: 

The  sad  news  of  your  loved  Mother's  death  filled  our 
hearts  with  grief  and  sympathy.  We  knew  her  but  to 
love  and  admire  her.  We  condole  with  you  in  this  hour 
of  sorrow.  Our  prayers  have  been,  and  will  continue  to 
be  offered  for  the  dear  departed  one,  as  well  as  for  those 
who  mourn  for  her. 

Her  life  was  that  of  the  true  religious  and  devoted 
Mother.  God's  glory,  her  own  sanctification,  the  tempo- 
ral, intellectual  and  spiritual  interest  of  her  dear  Com- 
munity, seemed  to  be  the  dominant  aim  of  her  holy  and 
useful  life. 

We  believe  that  the  Sacred  Heart  of  Jesus  has  inun- 
dated the  soul  of  His  faithful  Spouse  with  Heaven's  blisS;, 
and  that  your  loved  Mother  has  become  in  the  Celestial 
Court,  the  patroness  and  intercessor  of  each  of  her  dear 
children  in  Christ. 

May  each  of  you,  dear  Reverend  Sisters,  feel  the  con- 
soling effects  of  her  prayers  and  be  comforted.  Ah, 
more!  Be  happy  in  the  happiness  of  the  Mother,  who 
av/aits  you  in  glory. 

Your  sympathizing  friends  in  Christ, 

The  Sisters  of  the  Congregation  op  Notre  Dame. 

Letter  of  sympathy  to  the  Community  from  the  ven- 
erated Mother  General  of  the  Dominican  Sisters, 
Sinsinawa,  Wis. 

April  29,  1904. 
My  Dear  Sisters: 

The  news  of  your  beloved  Mother  Genevieve's  death 
brings  us  all  to  you  in  loving  sympathy.  The  suddeness 
of  the  call  which  she  answered  makes  your  sorrow  the 
more  overwhelming. 

223 


;  ,  SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

It  is  distressingly  painful  to  think  that  she  should 
leave  you  without  saying  what  you  know  was  in  her 
heart  for  you,  of  love  and  counsel.  Still,  my  dear  Sisters, 
He  who  called  her  knows  your  need,  and  He  will  be  your 
stay. 

As  for  your  dear  Mother,  herself,  she  was  prepared  by 
a  long  life  of  beautiful  and  strong  devotion  to  duty,  for 
the  meeting  with  her  God.  We  can  find  ourselves  almost 
envying  the  "well  done"  of  the  Master's  welcome  to  her. 
She  has  left  you  a  legacy  of  that  inspiring  example,  that 
heroic  devotion  to  your  Community,  which,  chiefly  after 
God's  blessing,  has  made  you  the  strong  body  of  able 
women  that  you  are. 

May  this  touching  example  and  all  the  tender  associa- 
tions revived  by  her  death  impel  each  one  of  you  more 
courageously  forward  on  the  path  of  religious  perfection 
which  she  followed  till  death. 

Be  assured  of  our  prayers,  not  only  for  your  belowed 
Mother,  but  for  you  all,  that  God  may  direct  and  inspire 
you  to  know  His  will  in  the  selection  of  your  Superior, 
and  that  the  strength  that  comes  from  unity  and  harmony 
may  be  the  heritage  of  your  Community. 

In  deep  sympathy,  your  sister  in  St.  Dominic, 
Sister  M.  Emily,  O.S.D.,  Mother  General, 

This  v/ell-beloved  Mother  General  has  since  gone  to 
receive  her  well-merited  reward  in  the  happy  Home  of 
the  Blessed. 

A  Jesuit  who  was  well  acquainted  with  Rev.  Mother 
Genevieve  wrote:  "No  one  as  well  as  youselves  can 
realize  how  much  she  has  been  to  you  and  how  deep  is 
the  sense  of  your  loss  of  her  wise,  kindly  hand  and  of 
her  strong,  loving  presence;  but  all  who  knew  her  ever 
so  little,  and  the  great  good  she  was  doing  in  her  zeal 
and  charity,  share  your  grief,  and  also  your  trust  in  the 
great  reward  she  is  to  have.    I  heard  a  part  of  Mrs.  F.'s 

224 


SAINT  XAVIER'S— CHICAGO 

letter  to  Bernard,  with  its  expressions  of  sorrow  and 
gratitude,  and  I  am  sure  they  are  those  of  many  others. 

"From  the  little  I  saw  of  her  and  the  much  I  heard,  I 
thought  Mother  Genevieve  a  great  woman — great  in  her 
strength  of  character  and  that  remarkable  simplicity 
which  is  the  proof  of  true  greatness ;  and  a  good  woman, 
with  a  deep,  vivid  faith  and  a  zeal  and  charity,  which  was 
kindled  in  the  Sacred  Heart.  Almost  her  first  words  to 
me  convinced  me  of  this.  Certainly  God  has  been  with 
her  in  her  work,  and  with  you  in  giving  her  to  you. 

"And  how  like  her  life  and  befitting  it,  was  its  close, 
working  for  God  to  the  end,  her  last  act  being  the  recep- 
tion of  God's  benediction. 

"That  God  gave  her  to  you,  and  left  her  for  so  many 
years  until  you  have  become  so  well  established  in  num- 
bers and  work,  is  to  me  a  sign  of  His  special  Providence 
over  your  Community;  and  it  is  a  guarantee  that  that 
Providence  will  continue  while  the  spirit  of  faith  and 
charity  and  zeal  of  Mother  Genevieve  continue  there.  God 
will  send  others  to  take  her  place  and  advance  her  work, 
which  is  His  work  and  yours.  And  she,  who  did  so  much 
while  here,  can  now,  when  nearer  the  Source  of  all  suc- 
cess, do  still  more,  and  more  efficaciously  for  those  to 
whom  she  was  so  devoted." 

South  Bend,  Ind.,  April  28,  1904. 

Dear  Mother  Xavier: 

The  news  of  the  death  of  your  Reverend  Mother  Gene- 
vieve has  cast  a  gloom  over  my  little  household.  It  was 
but  a  few  weeks  ago  that  she  and  I  were  chatting  and 
we  were  talking  about  you  and  others  of  our  acquaint- 
ance. Now  she  is  no  more  on  earth.  This  is  another 
proof  that  the  unexpected  always  happens  and  we  know 
neither  the  day  nor  the  hour  when  we  shall  be  called 
before  the  Judge  from  whose  decree  there  is  no  ippeal. 
Your  Community  has  suffered  a  great  loss  and  all  of  us  an 

225 


SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

ideal  friend.  Mrs.  Clarke,  the  children  and  I  share  with 
you  in  the  sorrow  of  your  great  bereavement.  We  join 
with  your  Community  in  prayers  to  our  Heavenly  Father 
for  the  repose  of  her  soul.  Assuring  you  and  the  good 
Sisters  of  our  deepest  sympathy  and  asking  God  to  have 
mercy  on  all  the  souls  of  the  faithful  departed,  I  am  very 
respectfully  yours,  Geo.  E.  Clarke. 

Mr.  Geo.  Clarke,  State's  Attorney,  South  Bend,  Ind., 
was  a  warm  friend  of  St.  Xavier's  and  was  greatly 
admired  by  the  Sisters  and  students  for  several  reasons. 
Notwithstanding  his  multifarious  duties  in  his  service  of 
the  State,  he  was  often  called  on  as  an  exceptional  orator 
to  deliver  lectures  on  various  subjects.  St.  Xavier's  was 
favored  in  hearing  three  of  his  most  noted  subjects,  viz. : 
Napoleon,  which  had  to  be  repeated,  it  was  considered 
so  fine;  Aaron  Burr  and  Irish  Patriots.  His  method  of 
treating  those  was  so  unique  that  he  always  left  his  aud- 
ience wishing  for  more. 

But  his  strenuous  life  told  on  his  vigorous  constitution 
and  the  unexpected  again  happened.  In  1910,  at  the  early 
age  of  forty-nine,  a  wife  and  three  children  were  called 
upon  to  mourn  his  loss,  and  a  great  loss  it  was  to  them, 
as  well  as  to  other  surviving  friends,  especially  to  his 
cousin  at  St.  Xavier's,  Sister  Mary  Nolasco. 

Visitation  Convent,  St.  Louis,  Mo. 
Dear  Mother: 

How  could  I,  a  child  of  the  Sisters  of  Mercy  from  my 
first  to  the  last  school  day,  slight  your  request  for  some 
reminiscence  of  our  beloved  and  saintly  Rev.  Mother 
Genevieve? 

It  is  now  more  than  fifty  years  since  I  saw  that  dear 
face,  those  soft  dark  eyes,  that  sweet  winning  smile  and 
it  is  yet  indelibly  fixed  on  my  memory.  My  first  acquaint- 
ance dates  back  ten  years  earlier.  A  young  girl  and  pupil 
in  the  Academy  at  that  time,  I  was  fully  satisfied  that 
dear  Sister  Mary  Genevieve,  as  she  was  then  called,  was 

226 


SAINT  XAVIER'S— CHICAGO 

a  religious  of  great  sanctity ;  in  fact,  we  girls  had  canon- 
ized her,  and,  as  I  now  look  back  at  her  early  religious 
life,  I  can  see  how  deeply  she  laid  her  foundation  of 
humility.  The  lowest  duties  of  Convent  life  seemed  to 
be  a  pleasure  to  her — sweeping,  scrubbing  the  stairs, 
carrying  the  coal,  or  other  similar  occupations ;  for  in  the 
early  fifties  the  modern  steam-heat  furnace  had  not  yet 
been  introduced  at  St.  Xavier's,  nor  at  St.  Agatha's 
either. 

In  my  youthful  judgment  all  this  seemed  to  be  a  very 
unjust  distribution  of  these  duties.  Why  should  she,  who 
did  such  beautiful  embroidery  on  vestments  while  pre- 
siding at  our  recreation,  be  obliged  to  harden  and  ruin 
her  hands  with  such  coarse  work?  The  solution  came 
later.  I  learned  that  it  was  of  her  own  free  will  she 
chose  those  humble  employments.  Years  passed  before  I 
even  began  to  understand  this  beautiful  and  touching 
example  of  humility. 

The  loving  little  missives  that  occasionally  gladdened 
the  heart  of  the  girl  just  out  of  school  became  fewer  as 
time  wore  on.  One  would  imagine  that  Mother  Mary 
Genevieve  had  forgotten.  But  not  so.  If  sorrows  over- 
whelmed, dear  Rev.  Mother  Genevieve's  sweet  words 
came  to  comfort  the  anguished  soul.  A  few  words  1 
remember  from  a  letter  after  the  death  of  my  brother 
will  instance  this.  She  wrote:  "This  morning  I  had  for 
the  subject  of  my  meditation  the  beautiful  story  of 
Martha  and  Mary  and  their  brother  Lazarus.  As  I 
recalled  the  story  afterward  it  seemed  to  have  a  meaning 
for  you  and  your  dear  sister,  whose  dearly  loved  brother 
is  dead  and  you  are  sorrowful.  The  Lord  came  to  them ; 
He  will  also  come  to  you.  He  comforted  them.  He  will 
also  comfort  you.  He  who  is  the  Resurrection  and  the 
Life  has  said,  "He  who  believeth  in  me,  although  he  be 
dead,  shall  live.'  "  I  remember  now  what  comfort  that 
letter  brought.    It  was  so  sweet  and  consoling  throughout. 

227 


SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

There  is  much  more  I  might  say,  but  it  is  all  to  me  a 
sweet  and  sacred  memory  of  the  dear  departed  Mother. 

I  hope  we  may  all  meet  in  Heaven,  where  partings  are 
no  more  and  where  joy  will  be  everlasting. 

Affectionately  in  the  Sacred  Heart, 

Sister  Mary  Magdalen. 

The  following  impressions  of  an  old  friend  of  Mother 
Genevieve  speak  for  themselves: 

Dear  Sisters: 

I  wish  that  I  had  the  gift  of  eloquence  that  I  might 
put  into  fitting  words  all  I  feel  of  admiration  for  my  dear 
benefactress — noble  and  magnanimous  Mother  Gene- 
vieve. Of  the  many  consoling  talks  I  had  with  her,  the 
following  will  give  but  a  faint  idea  of  her  gracious  spirit 
in  a  great  emergency : 

It  was  during  those  perilous  years  of  panic  and  dis- 
tress after  the  great  fire  of  '71,  when  Reverend  Mother 
Genevieve  was  chosen  to  steer  the  bark  of  the  then  new 
St.  Xavier  Academy  through  troubled  waters,  that  her 
dauntless  spirit,  her  wonderful  ability  to  conquer  appar- 
ently unsurmountable  obstacles,  made  themselves  hero- 
ically manifest. 

After  the  death  of  Right  Reverend  Bishop  Foley,  who 
had  been  her  unfailing  aid  and  benefactor,  and  whose 
unexpected  death  almost  wrecked  her  hopes  of  saving 
the  Institution,  she  related  to  me  something  of  her  patient 
and  untiring  efforts  to  raise  money  to  meet  the  payments 
on  the  debt  of  the  Convent. 

"It  was  almost  in  despair,"  she  said,  "that  Sister 
Raphael  and  myself  set  out  early  each  morning  to  beg 
the  assistance  of  the  merchants  and  business  men  of  the 
city.  We  would  travel  all  day  and  return  at  six  o'clock 
in  the  evening  weary  and  often  discouraged.  Frequently 
we  met  with  rebuff  and  scant  courtesy,  but  among  those 
who  treated  us  most  generously  were  Mr.  Marshall  Field, 

228 


SAINT  XAVIER'S— CHICAGO 

Mr.  Keeley  and  Mr.  John  R.  Walsh,  who  met  us  with 
unfailing  kindness.  The  Community  prayed  continuously 
for  our  success  and  God  was  with  us  then  as  always." 

Notwithstanding  her  burden  of  care  and  anxiety  she 
found  time  to  look  after  the  poor  who  came  to  her  gates. 
By  her  orders,  during  the  panic  year  of  '79,  men  unable 
to  find  work  who  stood  in  line  at  the  basement  door  of 
Mercy  Hospital,  sometimes  to  the  number  of  seventy, 
were  daily  fed  and  given  clothing.  When  I  questioned 
her  as  to  why  no  publicity  was  given  this  charity,  such  as 
the  newspapers  were  daily  giving  to  others,  she  replied, 
with  that  wondrous  faith  of  hers,  "Does  not  God  know  it? 
That  alone  is  necessary." 

At  one  time  she  told  me  of  a  visit  to  Mr.  Walsh.  It 
was  for  the  purpose  of  obtaining  an  extension  of  time  on 
the  interest  due  on  the  loan,  which  she  had  made  to  meet 
the  payments  on  the  new  building,  and  for  which  the 
property  on  which  the  present  Academy  stands  was  given 
as  security.  She  said,  "We  were  in  terrible  fear  that  we 
would  lose  the  property,  as  we  had  no  money  and  did 
not  know  where  to  turn  for  help.  Mr.  Walsh  had  already 
extended  the  time  more  than  once,  so  that  it  was  with 
sinking  hearts  that  Sister  Mary  Baptist  and  myself 
started  on  our  way  to  his  office."  "Mr.  Walsh,"  she 
explained,  "was  no  longer  a  man  to  be  easily  approached 
as  formerly.  He  had  a  suite  of  offices — ^you  sent  in  your 
card  or  your  name  was  announced  by  one  or  more  clerks, 
and  if  the  great  man  was  not  in  the  humor  to  receive 
you,  there  was  no  alternative  but  to  depart  as  you  came. 
But  this  time  we  were  fortunate  enough  to  be  received, 
and  while  he  had  little  to  say  on  the  subject,  he  was  very 
respectful  and  granted  all  we  asked." 

In  connection  with  and  while  speaking  of  these  cares 
and  anxieties,  she  recalled  to  mind  the  time  when,  as  a 
girl,  she  first  decided  to  take  the  veil.  When  she  informed 
her  parents  of  her  intention,  they  were  not  well  pleased ; 

229 


SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

her  father  especially  asked  her  what  her  reason  was  for 
taking  such  a  step,  as  she  would  be  obliged  to  go  far  from 
home.  She  replied  that  she  wished  to  avoid  the  responsi- 
bilities of  a  life  in  the  world,  the  cares  of  the  household 
such  as  her  mother  and  sisters  had  assumed.  "So  you 
see,"  she  remarked,  her  dark  eyes  twinkling,  "how  I  have 
escaped  them!" 

After  many  years,  I  can  hear  the  calm  deep  voice  and 
see  the  characteristic  gesture  of  upturned  hands,  with 
which  she  emphasized  her  unanswerable  argument  that 
all  was  well  since  it  was  in  God's  hands.  How  often  she 
impressed  this  loving  philosophy  upon  me  with  her  God- 
given  instinct  to  help  one  in  distress!  How  often  her 
unfailing  and  practical  friendship  stood  between  me  and 
disaster,  is  one  of  the  sacred  memories  to  be  treasured  in 
my  heart  for  all  time. 

Sincerely  yours, 

A.  J.  F. 

IN  LOVING  MEMORY  OF  OUR  DEAR  DEPARTED 
REVEREND  MOTHER  MARY  GENEVIEVE 

For  the  last  time  before  the  hallowed  altar. 

Where,  'till  they  could  no  more,  her  eager  feet 
Had  turned  with  faithful  love  that  could  not  falter, 

In  Mercy's  devious  paths,  in  ways  so  sweet; 
Scarcely  more  quiet  now  than  in  the  hours 

When  days  unnumbered,  she  was  wont  to  pray, 
Silent  and  pale  she  lay  amid  the  flowers, 

Sweet  symbols  of  her  life-long  virtues  they 
No  hopeless  sobs,  no  wailings  of  affliction 

Moaned  thro'  the  measure  of  the  organ's  swell ; 
But  grandly,  like  a  solemn  benediction 

The  cleric's  "Requiescat"  rose  and  fell. 
And  oh!  how  well-deserved  the  tribute  spoken 

"Where  shall  we  find  a  nobler  life  than  this?" 

230 


SAINT  XAVIER'S— CHICAGO 

Retracing  her  long  span  of  years  unbroken 

By  aught  that  could  retard  her  heavenly  bliss. 
Oh!  where  indeed?    Her  childhood  days  were  given, 
For  five  and  fifty  years  she  had  toiled  and  striven, 

To  guide  and  save  the  souls  for  whom  He  died. 
0  may  His  precious  blood  for  her  now  plead, 

If  stain  there  be  of  earth  upon  her  soul. 
Dear  Mother,  for  thy  children  intercede. 

That  we  like  thee  may  dying,  reach  the  goal. 

Alumna. 

Chicago,  April  27. 
Esteemed  Mother: 

I  was  grieved  to  read  this  morning  the  sad  news  of  the 
death  of  your  dear  and  venerated  Mother  Genevieve. 

I  can  well  realize  how  overwhelming  this  affliction  must 
be  to  the  Community  and  especially  to  the  Sisters  who 
have  known  and  loved  her  from  early  days. 

Mother  Genevieve  has  been  a  glory  and  a  benediction 
to  Chicago  in  her  life  and  in  her  work;  in  her  zeal  for 
Christian  education,  for  the  salvation  of  souls,  for  the 
holy  cause  of  charity.  What  a  laborious  life  of  self-sac- 
rifice, of  devotion,  of  piety! 

She  has  now  entered  into  the  reward  of  that  long  and 
faithful  service. 

Permit  me  to  give  this  expression  of  my  personal  sor- 
row for  the  loss  of  one  I  have  known  so  many  years,  and 
of  my  sincere  sympathy  to  the  Community  she  ruled  so 
long  and  so  wisely.     Very  respectfully, 

William  J.  Onahan. 
Mother  Scholastica,  Superior, 

St.  Agatha's  Convent. 


231 


SISTERS  OF  MERCY 


MY   ROSARY 


All  the  earth  is  flushed  with  beauty, 
Though  the  summer  days  are  o'er, 
And  the  gentle  flowers  that  cheered  us 

For  a  time  we'll  see  no  more. 
In  the  midst  of  autumn's  splendors 

Comes  a  feast  we  all  love  well. 
For  we've  learned  the  Rosary's  power 

As  no  words  of  ours  can  tell. 

Fervently  we  said  this  prayer, 

When  our  sky  from  clouds  was  free, 
When  we  craved  some  long-sought  favor 

That  we  might  the  happier  be; 
Something  we  had  set  our  heart  on — 
A  boon  for  some  dear  friend  to  win, 
A  virtue  that  we  fain  would  practice, 
A  soul  we  would  reclaim  from  sin. 

We  remember,  too,  of  kneeling 
In  the  deepening  twilight  hour. 

When  a  heavy  cross  weighed  on  us. 
Crushed  us  with  o'erwhelming  power; 

When  before  our  troubled  fancy 
Rose  a  lonely  little  mound. 

Oh !  how  poor  seemed  earth's  best  treasures 

To  that  piece  of  hallowed  ground ! 

Then  we  breathed  our  prayer  in  anguish 

While  the  teardrops  fell  like  rain ; 
Could  we  ever  know  life's  gladness, 

Would  happiness  be  ours  again? 
As  the  beads  slipped  through  our  fingers, 

O'er  us  stole  a  wondrous  calm. 
And  the  Rosary  in  our  sorrow 

Proved  to  us  a  heavenly  balm. 

232 


SAINT  XAVIER'S— CHICAGO 

So  the  Rosary  has  been  woven 

With  life's  memories  sweet  and  sad ; 
In  our  sorrows  it  has  soothed  us, 

It  has  made  our  sunshine  glad. 
And  as  time  brings  forth  life's  flowers 

Binds  them  on  the  Future's  brow. 
We  shall  know  the  Rosary's  power 

Better  far  than  we  do  now. 

A  Pupil  of  1880. 


Mo;T  Rev.  Patrick  A.  Feehan,  D.  D. 

FIRST     ARCHBISHOP    OF    CHICAGO 
I 880- I 902 


CHAPTER  SIXTEEN 

Chicago's  first  Archbishop,  Most  Rev,  P.  A. 
Feehan,  1880.  He  proved  a  kind  friend  to 
the  Community.  His  departure  in  1902  a 
great  loss  to  Chicago. 


CHAPTER  SIXTEEN 
Most  Rev.  P.  A.  Feehan,  D.D. 

Catholic  Chicago  rejoiced  with  a  great  joy  in  the  year 
1880,  when  the  news  was  flashed  over  the  cable  from  the 
Eternal  City  that  Rt.  Rev.  P.  A.  Feehan,  the  learned  and 
zealous  Bishop  of  Nashville,  Tenn.,  was  appointed  to 
govern  the  Diocese,  and,  furthermore,  that  Chicago  was 
to  be  raised  to  the  dignity  of  a  Metropolitan  See. 

Unwavering  in  his  insistence  on  having  a  school  in 
every  parish  through  the  Diocese,  Archbishop  Feehan  will 
long  be  remembered  as  "The  Defender  of  Our  Catholic 
Schools." 

On  the  arrival  of  Chicago's  first  Archbishop,  there 
were  one  hundred  eighty  Sisters  of  Mercy  in  St.  Xavier's. 
On  his  demise,  July  12,  1902,  the  same  Community  num- 
bered two  hundred  and  seventy. 

Another  Community  of  Sisters  of  Mercy  from  Nash- 
ville, Tenn.,  under  the  direction  of  Mother  Catherine 
Feehan,  conducted  St.  Patrick's  Academy.  A  sincere 
friendship  was  formed  between  Rev.  Mother  Mary  Gene- 
vieve and  Rev.  Mother  Mary  Catherine  long  before  the 
Archbishop  came  to  Chicago,  and  this  strengthened  with 
the  years,  as  each  learned  to  value  the  exalted  virtues  and 
real  worth  of  the  other.  During  the  weeks  of  Mother 
Catherine's  great  sorrow  at  the  loss  of  her  venerable 
brother,  no  one  more  truly  sympathized  with  her  than 
did  Rev.  Mother  Mary  Genevieve,  and  with  good  reason. 
This  gracious  Prelate  was  all  that  a  kind  father  could  be 
to  our  Community.  Rev.  Mother  Mary  Genevieve  always 
found  him  ready  to  aid  her  in  any  trial  or  difficulty  for 
the  many  years  that  he  so  wisely  governed  the  Diocese 
of  Chicago. 

237 


SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

Extract  from  New  World  of  July  19,  1902 : 

DEATH  OF  OUR  BELOVED  ARCHBISHOP 

"A  life  noble,  beautiful  and  good  in  thought  and  action, 
in  the  secrecy  of  the  home  as  well  as  in  the  sanctuary  and 
in  the  chair  of  Episcopal  Administration,  has  reached  its 
term.  Few  Prelates  have  better  earned  the  double  honor 
that,  as  St.  Paul  declares  in  his  Epistle  to  Timothy, 
attaches  to  probity  in  private  life  and  integrity  in  public 
office,  than  the  Most  Rev.  Patrick  Augustine  Feehan.  Few 
ecclesiastics  have  been  rendered  more  illustrious,  not  only 
by  the  nobility  of  their  personality  but  also  by  the  moral 
elevation  of  their  public  policy.  A  retrospect  of  that  life 
so  fruitful  in  acts  of  beneficence,  so  attractive  to  all  who 
had  the  dignity  of  character  to  appreciate  it,  impresses 
us  most  of  all  by  its  unity,  continuity  and  symmetry.  St. 
Gregory  of  Nazianzen  beautifully  said  of  the  great  St. 
Basil,  that  he  was  a  priest  before  he  received  Episcopal 
Ordination.  Even  in  Archbishop  Feehan's  boyhood  the 
innocence  of  his  disposition,  the  gravity  of  his  demeanor, 
his  solid  virtues  and  his  love  for  the  Church  and  its 
sacred  ceremonies,  had  consecrated  his  soul  before  the 
hands  of  the  Bishop  had  communicated  to  him  the  sacra- 
mental character. 

"The  equipoise  of  that  grand  and  noble  life,  which 
opened  in  the  year  of  Ireland's  emancipation,  in  the 
shadow  of  the  historic  Rock  of  "Cashel  of  the  Kings,"  and 
peacefully  closed  in  the  Archiepiscopal  residence  of  Chi- 
cago, could  not  lose  or  suffer  alteration  in  a  single  element 
without  the  moral  beauty  of  its  balance  and  proportions 
being  disturbed.  The  gentleness  and  sense  of  justice,  the 
apostolic  sweetness  and  dignity,  the  unostentatious  zeal 
and  quiet  enthusiasm  in  every  noble  enterprise  that  won 
unbounded  admiration  during  his  episcopate  had  estab- 
lished an  inviolable  sanctuary  in  his  soul  from  his  earliest 
years.    The  complete  absence  of  self-seeking  was  as  evi- 

238 


SAINT  XAVIER'S— CHICAGO 

dent  in  the  boy  as  in  the  Archbishop,  and  he  accepted 
academic  honors  in  the  same  spirit  of  gentle  reluctance 
in  which  he  afterward  accepted  the  highest  ecclesiastical 
dignities.  Yet  the  magnificent  gifts  with  which  nature 
had  lavishly  endowed  him  were  cultivated  with  consci- 
entious care,  so  that  one  of  his  professors  in  Maynooth 
said  of  him,  what  was  once  said  of  St.  Athanasius,  that 
he  surpassed  the  most  brilliant  by  his  industry  and  the 
most  diligent  by  his  brilliancy. 

"The  dominant,  unifying  principle  of  his  life  was  his 
moral  elevation  of  character.  By  a  natural  affinity  he 
was  associated  during  the  entire  length  of  his  career  with 
men  of  powerful  intellect  and  lofty  ideals.  The  late  Lord 
Russell  of  Killowen  was  his  classmate  at  Castleknock 
College  and  his  life-long  friend.  Among  his  intimate 
associates  in  the  great  ecclesiastical  Seminary  of 
Maynooth,  especially  after  his  promotion  to  the  famous 
Dunboyne  establishment,  were  the  Rev.  Dr.  Murray, 
author  of  the  classic  work  on  "The  Church" ;  Rev.  George 
Crolly,  the  celebrated  jurist;  the  Bishop  of  Tuam,  "the 
lion  of  the  fold  of  Judah."  From  the  day  of  his  affiliation 
to  the  Diocese  of  St.  Louis  he  enjoyed  the  friendship  of 
its  illustrious  Ordinary,  the  scholarly  Archbishop 
Kenrick,  and  the  intimate  companionship  of  the  late 
Archbishop  Hennesey  of  Dubuque,  and  Archbishop  Ryan 
of  Philadelphia,  "The  American  Chrysostom,"  who  came 
from  the  Atlantic  coast  to  the  funeral  to  offer  the  unique 
tribute  of  his  eloquence  to  the  illustrious  dead.  Every 
impulse  of  his  spirit  was  lofty,  far-reaching,  masterful 
and  free  from  subjection  to  accidental  circumstances  of 
time  and  place.  That  love  of  academic  seclusion  and 
shrinking  from  notoriety,  which  to  many  seemed  rooted 
in  his  character,  would  disappear  before  the  needs  of  a 
situation  like  that  in  which  he  found  himself  when  he 
became  Bishop  of  Nashville  immediately  after  the  Civil 
War.     Then  the  vigor,   enthusiasm,   splendid   physical 

239 


SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

energy  and  boundless  resources  latent  in  his  powerful 
personality  came  into  play,  and  remained  in  evidence 
until  he  had  brought  order  out  of  chaos  and  reorganized 
the  Church  on  a  magnificent  scale  within  the  sphere  of 
his  jurisdiction. 

"That  such  a  man  would  be  popular  with  that  strong 
and  enduring  popularity  that  captivates  the  mind  and 
heart  rather  than  the  fancy  was  inevitable,  and  the  love 
and  admiration  of  his  people  on  special  occasions,  notably 
when  he  celebrated  the  Silver  Jubilee  of  His  Episcopate 
in  Chicago,  flamed  up  with  an  ardor  and  intensity  almost 
unparalleled  in  the  history  of  this  country.  Public  men 
are  often  most  admired  where  they  are  least  known.  The 
deceased  Archbishop  awakened  the  deepest  revernce  and 
most  enthusiastic  aflfection  in  the  minds  and  hearts  of  his 
priests  in  Chicago.  For  more  than  twenty-two  years 
they  have  been  the  chief  beneficiaries  of  his  wise  and 
gentle  rule.  Never  has  there  been  a  happier  combination 
of  the  suaviter  in  modo  and  the  fortiter  in  re. 

"The  charm  of  his  personal  character,  his  deep  and  un- 
ostentatious piety,  his  truly  Southern  dignity  and  suavity, 
his  enthusiasm  for  every  noble  ideal,  and  his  serene  mind 
and  tranquil  judgment  would  ennoble  human  nature  in 
any  profession,  but  dignified  it  with  a  peculiar  grace  in 
the  person  of  a  Catholic  Bishop.  God,  in  His  Providence, 
we  may  well  hope,  will  always  provide  great  Archbishops 
for  this  great  Archdiocese.  But  in  our  most  sanguine 
moments  we  cannot  look  for  a  Prelate  who  will  be  in 
better  accord  with  the  legitimate  rights,  or  in  closer 
harmony  with  the  noblest  and  loftiest  aspirations  of  his 
priests,  than  was  the  Most  Rev.  Archbishop  Feehan." 


240 


I 


Most  Rev.  James  E.  Quigley,  D.  D. 
second  archbishop  of  chicago 

I903-I915 


CHAPTER  SEVENTEEN 

Most  Rev.  J.  E.  Quigley,  second  Archbishop, 
1903.  Many  tributes  from  Chicago  papers 
testify  to  his  worth.  After  a  short  illness  his 
friends  receive  his  last  sigh,  1915.  Over  a 
hundred  thousand  children  are  praying  for 
him. 


CHAPTER  SEVENTEEN 

MOST  REVEREND  ARCHBISHOP  J.  E.  QUIGLEY,  D.D. 

How  little  we  suspected  the  last  time  Archbishop  Quig- 
ley  visited  the  Academy  that  his  beautiful  eyes  would  be 
veiled  in  death  when  next  he  was  seen  by  many  of  his 
devoted  children.  Urged  to  take  a  vacation,  he  went  to 
visit  his  friends  in  Buffalo,  and  it  was  well,  as  they  had 
the  satisfaction  of  administering  comfort  to  him  in  his 
last  illness,  of  receiving  his  last  weary  sigh,  when  he 
breathed  forth  his  gentle  spirit  into  the  hands  of  his 
Maker.  July  10,  1915,  he  passed  away  to  a  better  life, 
after  an  illness  of  a  few  months.  Great  were  the  honors 
paid  his  venerated  remains,  but  greater  still  the  void  left 
in  the  hearts  of  his  devoted  people  of  Chicago. 

Said  a  noted  editor :  "It  is  difficult  to  write  an  appre- 
ciation of  one  who  took  such  scant  interest  in  either 
praise  or  blame.  In  mind  and  body  he  was  cast  in  heroic 
mold,  and  he  had  a  rare  reticence  about  his  own  works, 
never  giving  the  least  place  to  vindictiveness." 

Another  prominent  editor  said :  "He  was  a  champion  of 
religious  education,  and  the  apple  of  his  eye  was  St. 
Mary's  Training  School,  his  waifs  and  his  orphans.  He 
resented  the  idea  that  he  could  be  influenced,  yet  he 
could  be  influenced,  but  only  by  the  conviction  of  right. 

Mr.  W.  J.  Onahan  testified :  "Archbishop  Quigley  was  a 
wise  and  prudent  administrator.  His  death  is  a  great 
loss  to  Chicago,  and  fills  with  sorrow  the  hearts  of  all 
people,  Catholic  and  non-Catholic." 

Bishop  Fallows  of  the  Episcopal  Church  said:  "I  had 
the   pleasure   of   knowing   Archbishop   Quigley   and   1 

243 


SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

learned  to  respect  him  highly.  We  found  the  Archbishop 
with  us  in  movements  for  the  common  good." 

Many  others  publicly  testified  to  the  sterling  worth  of 
Chicago's  departed  Prelate;  but  the  most  beautiful  pic- 
ture of  all  was  depicted  by  the  editor  of  the  New  World 
when  he  says:  "Archbishop  Quigley  was  a  just  man,  a 
Providential  ruler,  a  true  ecclesiastic  and  an  apostolic 
Bishop.  Built  on  princely  line  without,  he  was  a  real 
prince  within.  He  found  his  work — heart-breaking 
work,  before  him;  but  he  did  not  let  it  break  his  heart 
though  it  did  break  his  body  and  killed  him." 

"His  soul  was  all  that  a  soul  should  be — wise  in  its 
goodness  and  full  of  sympathy  caught  from  its  Creator. 
*  *  *  He  was  the  Archbishop  of  Chicago,  but  an  Arch- 
bishop of  the  Church  in  America.  He  made  his  influence 
felt  without  trying,  or  even  thinking  of  it  at  all,  and  he 
made  it  felt  in  the  whole  Church  *  *  *  Yet  he  governed 
as  Archbishop  for  only  twelve  years — twelve  short  years 
measured  as  men  measure  them,  but  twelve  long  years 
as  measured  by  achievement. 

"The  Diocese  of  Chicago  will  remember  Archbishop 
Quigley  as  the  ruler  who  knew  how  to  be  silent  with  his 
tongue,  and  how  to  speak  in  his  deeds ;  as  the  peacemaker 
whose  short  reign  was  one  long  treaty  and  a  pledge  of  its 
permanence;  as  a  gentleman  plus  the  sanctity  of  an  all- 
enveloping  priesthood;  as  a  builder  whose  thought  was 
never  of  human  glory  or  show,  but  always  of  God's  glory 
and  souls.  He  reared  no  "frozen  music"  in  the  air,  but 
three  thousand  waifs  and  orphans  are  weeping  their 
Father's  going  from  them.  Over  a  hundred  thousand 
children  in  the  schools  he  fostered  are  praying  for  him. 
Six  hundred  priests  give  him  their  tribute  of  affectionate 
silence,  and  the  mighty  Society  of  which  he  was  a  co- 
Founder  and  its  first  Chancellor  has  reason  to  shroud  its 
portals  in  mourning  for  the  one  who  opened  his  career 
as  Archbishop  by  recognizing  that  a  call  to  duty  for 

244 


SAINT  XAVIER'S— CHICAGO 

precious  souls  may  not  be  ignored  because  it  comes  from 
afar  and  happens  to  be  without  the  barriers  that  shut  in 
bare  necessity. 

"James  Edward  Quigley,  the  Archbishop,  the  priest 
and  the  citizen,  knew  justice  well;  but  it  will  ever  stand 
out  in  his  character  that  he  knew  charity  even  better." 

"GOLD  LIES  DEEP  IN  THE  MOUNTAINS'* 

With  light  hearts  o'er  Culture's  broad  field  we  have  run 

For  the  trophies  aglow  in  each  day's  golden  sun. 

And  frinedship's  soft  tendrils  which  lure  us  today. 

Twine  wreaths  round  our  hearts  which  shall  never  decay. 

If  backward  our  thoughts  fly  to  victory's  urn, 

The  cremated  embers  of  progress  to  turn. 

Remembrance  awaking  at  youth's  bubbling  fount, 

Displays  the  pure  gold  that  lies  deep  in  the  mount. 

When  viewed  through  the  prism  of  Science,  how  grand 

Are  all  the  rare  sketches  of  Wisdom's  fair  hand ! 

And  if  we  delve  deep  'neath  the  dark  crust  we  tread. 

What  vast  mines  of  treasure  before  us  are  spread ! 

Our  rivers  glide  smoothly  o'er  gem-covered  beds, 

In  hoods  of  dark  grey  diamonds  veil  their  bright  heads; 

And  if,  'neath  the  mountain,  the  clay  we  unfold. 

Rich  spoil  shall  be  ours  in  glittering  Gold. 

But,  much  as  this  treasure  man's  heart  may  engage. 

His  thirst  for  true  beauty  it  ne'er  can  assuage ; 

His  spirit  divine  sees  in  Virtue  and  Culture 

Those    beauties   that   spring   from   the   hand    of   true 

Sculpture. 
While  Talent,  like  Naos,  the  universe  sails; 
The  secrets  of  earth  and  of  sky  it  unveils; 
And  like  the  great  eagle  that  swoops  through  the  blue. 
On  time's  golden  pages  knows  all  things  in  view. 
What  mountains,  what  mines,   did  the  famed  Chosen 

Twelve 
Lay  open  for  Virtue's  clear  streamlet  to  delve? 

245 


SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

Though  fishermen  poor,  from  GaUlee's  shore, 

They  wrought  purest  Gold  from  a  heathenish  ore, 

The  yet  untried  alloy  gave  back,  for  their  pains, 

Ingratitude's  tribute — a  dungeon  of  chains. 

Yet  onward  they  marched,  till  with  lustre  divine. 

Error's  clouds  they  rolled  back,  and  their  ingots  e'er  shine 

Like  meteors  bright,  to  illumine  each  age 

With  heroes,  the  foremost  on  History's  page. 

Oh !  you  who,  in  triumph,  that  banner  unfold, 

How  saved  you  from  tarnish  its  tissues  of  Gold? 

Thrice  blest  are  you  to  whom  God  has  given 

To  sift  the  crude  loam  for  the  pure  Gold  of  Heaven. 

Some  minds  girt  their  orbs  in  clouds  of  Gold  dreams; 

Some  heavenward  soared  and  reflected  their  beams; 

Some  multiplied  light  'till  the  wakening  world 

Her  slumbering  mist  of  delusion  upcurled. 

In  vain  would  fair  Liberty  flaunt  her  proud  crest 

In  the  East,  for  her  home  lay  afar  in  the  West, 

Where  Prowess  went  forth  like  an  Autumn  sunrise, 

And  wiped  Grief's  chill  dew  from  young  Freedom's  eyes. 

True!  to  Jena's  proud  hero  have  kings  bent  the  knee. 

But  Fame's  menial  vassal — not  Liberty's — he! 

Nor  shall  Valor  to  him  her  laurels  unfold. 

Who  tore  up  the  mountains  but  scattered  the  Gold. 

Our  mountains  soar  nearest  the  clear  morning  sun ;  ' 

Our  rivers,  unequaled,  through  vast  Edens  run.  ' 

Our  infant  Republic,  like  Crcesus  of  old, 

Holds  treasures  unbounded,  in  Culture  and  Gold. 

Fair  land !  thou  wert  still  'neath  the  fell  tyrant's  heel, 

Hadst  thou  not  been  freed  by  brave  Washington's  steel. 

Each  mountain,  each  valley,  each  dell,  fount  and  rill. 

With  tales  of  his  glory  all  brave  hearts  now  fill. 

Oh !  shall  we  not  bathe  in  Freedom's  pure  wave 

And  cherish  the  lesson  our  Washington  gave? 

Julia  T.  Greene,  '87. 
RJ.P.,  1916. 
246  . 


CHAPTER  EIGHTEEN 

Recapitulation  of  schools — branches  of  St. 
Xavier's.  Houses  opened  in  Ottawa,  Harris- 
burg  and  Iowa.  St.  Mary's  Training  School, 
Des  Plaines,  111.  The  St.  Xavier  College 
opened  at  Forty-ninth  street.  Grotto  of  Our 
Lady  of  Lourdes  on  the  grounds.  Hymn  for 
May — written  by  the  Graduating  Class,  1885. 
Our  Chapel — twenty-two  immense  panels 
painted  by  Sister  Mary  Fidelis  for  the  ceil- 
ing. 


CHAPTER  EIGHTEEN 

RECAPITULATION  OF  SCHOOLS,  ETC. 

The  first  school  opened  in  Chicago  shortly  after  the 
arrival  of  the  Sisters  was  for  the  poor  children  of  the 
neighborhood.  It  was  in  an  old  frame  building  in  the 
rear  of  their  poor  little  cottage  on  Michigan  Avenue, 
corner  of  Madison  Street.  After  a  Convent  was  con- 
structed on  Wabash  Avenue  the  old  frame  church  which 
had  been  built  by  Father  St.  Cyr  (the  first  resident  priest 
of  Chicago)  was  moved  to  the  rear  of  the  Convent  and  all 
the  children  of  that  neighborhood  flocked  to  the  school. 

In  the  new  Convent,  131  Wabash  Avenue,  there  was 
room  for  a  few  boarders  and  this  was  the  nucleus  of  the 
St.  Xavier  Academy,  which  is  now  on  49th  Street  near 
Cottage  Grove  Avenue.  1915  saw  the  opening  of  a 
Collegiate  Department  which  bids  fair  to  rival  the  Acad- 
emy in  the  course  of  years. 

The  second  school  was  opened  in  Galena,  where  six 
Sisters  had  been  sent.  May  28,  1848.  Several  boarders 
were  received  here  and  the  people  were  very  kind  and 
devoted,  but  it  was  considered  so  great  a  distance  travel- 
ing by  coach,  taking  several  days  and  sometimes  a  week, 
besides  the  many  accidents  and  the  great  expense 
incurred,  it  was  decided  in  1858  to  withdraw  the  Sisters. 

In  1849  the  third  school  was  opened,  in  the  Holy  Name 
Parish.  In  the  same  year  an  orphanage  for  boys  and 
girls  was  opened  in  a  rented  building  on  the  North  Side. 
Owing  to  the  cholera  which  had  scourged  the  city  the 
asylum  was  soon  filled.  As  more  room  was  needed,  a  new 
one  was  opened  the  next  year  on  Wabash  Avenue  near 
Van  Buren  Street. 

249 


SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

St.  Patrick's  on  Desplaines  Street  was  the  fourth  par- 
ish school  (1854).  The  journey  every  day  on  foot  from 
St.  Mary's  on  Wabash  and  Madison  entailed  great  hard- 
ship on  the  small  Community  and  it  was  a  relief  to 
Superiors  to  hand  it  over  to  the  Sisters  of  Loretto  from 
Kentucky,  who  came  to  Chicago  in  1864  looking  for  a 
desirable  location. 

In  1851  Mercy  Hospital  was  opened  and  is  treated  of  at 
length  in  another  chapter. 

St.  Agatha's  Academy  was  inaugurated  in  1854,  Dec. 
8,  on  Calumet  Avenue  and  Twenty-Sixth  Street,  in  the 
suburb  then  known  as  Carville.  This  was  quite  flourish- 
ing until  in  1864  a  place  had  to  be  found  for  all  the 
patients  then  on  Wabash  Avenue.  Hence  St.  Agatha's  was 
transformed  into  a  very  fine  hospital — the  nucleus  of  the 
present  extensive  one.  But  St.  Agatha's  was  reopened  as 
a  day  and  boarding  school  on  Forty-Ninth  and  Evans 
Avenue  in  1890,  where  it  thrived  until  it  was  merged  into 
Corpus  Christi  School  on  Grand  Boulevard  when  Father 
Henneberry  organized  the  new  parish  in  1910.  Rev. 
Thomas  F.  O'Gara  is  now  the  honored  pastor. 

In  1859  a  Branch  House  was  opened  in  Ottawa,  111.,  and 
became  so  flourishing  it  was  created  an  independent  house 
in  1862,  and  is  now  in  the  Diocese  of  Peoria,  111. 

St.  John's  Parish  School  was  organized  by  Rev.  J. 
Waldron  in  1863  with  three  Sisters  and  over  one  hundred 
children  and  carried  on  successfully,  until  1893,  when 
the  school  building  was  condemned  as  unsanitary  and 
insecure. 

In  1865  the  House  of  Providence  for  the  protection  of 
young  women  of  good  character  was  opened  in  the  old 
Convent  after  the  building  of  the  new  one  south  of  it  on 
Wabash  Avenue.  The  inmates  were  removed  after  the 
fire  to  Calumet  Avenue,  near  26th  Street,  and  later 
(1901)  was  transferred  to  29th  and  Wabash. 

The  first  parish  school  for  old  St.  James  was  under 

250 


SAINT  XAVIER'S— CHICAGO 

Father  Murphy  in  1866  on  Prairie  Avenue  and  Twenty- 
Eighth  Street.  The  boys  were  taught  in  the  sacristy  and 
the  girls  in  a  small  old  frame  house  back  of  the  Church. 
Sisters  Mary  Ursula  and  Raphael  walked  almost  every 
day,  rain  or  snow,  hail  or  shine,  to  this  bleak  little  school 
from  Wabash  and  Madison.  Later  Father  P.  Conway, 
who  was  afterward  Vica  General,  raised  the  poor  frame 
Church  and  the  damp  gloomy  basement  was  used  as  a 
school.  In  1871  Rev.  P.  W.  Riordan,  afterward  Arch- 
bishop of  San  Francisco,  became  the  pastor  of  St.  James 
and  soon  commenced  to  build  a  new  Church  on  Wabash 
Avenue.  He  also  erected  a  Grammar  School  adjoining 
the  Church  for  the  children  of  the  parish.  On  his  depart- 
ure for  California,  Rev.  Hugh  McGuire,  his  successor, 
opened  this  school  in  1884  to  four  hundred  pupils  and  eight 
Sisters.  A  High  School  Department,  in  1890,  was  the 
finishing  touch  for  St.  James'  and  the  pride  of  Father 
McGuire's  heart.  Many  of  the  pupils  have  become 
teachers  and  several  have  embraced  the  religious  life. 
In  1906  this  school  had  grown  so  rapidly  there  were 
one  thousand  eight  hundred  children  registered  with  a 
staff  of  thirty-three  Sisters,  three  music  teachers  and  two 
lay  teachers.  A  large  commercial  department  trains  many 
pupils  for  a  business  career. 

On  his  death  he  bequeathed  "To  the  Sisters  of  Mercy 
— St.  Xavier  Academy,  Chicago — ^the  property  owned  by 
me  in  St.  Charles  Township,  Kane  County,  Illinois,  known 
as  Villa  Maria — Five  Islands  including  about  64  acres 
with  buildings,  vehicles  and  boats  and  household  furni- 
ture. It  is  my  will  and  wish  that  this  place  be  kept  and 
maintained  as  a  summer  residence  and  recreation  place 
for  the  Sisters  of  St.  James'  School,  and  any  other  Sisters 
whom  the  Superior  of  the  Community  may  send  there.  It 
has  always  been  my  earnest  desire  and  wish  to  do  some- 
thing for  the  Sisters  who  worked  so  zealously  and  faith- 
fully in  the  cause  of  education.  This  is  the  only  oppor- 
tunity I  have  had  and  it  gives  me  great  pleasure  to  do  it." 

251 


SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

He  also  left  five  hundred  dollars  for  Masses  for  his 
owTi  soul,  his  relatives  and  the  Sisters  who  taught  for 
him. 

In  1867  Chicago  sent  the  first  foundation  of  the  Order 
of  Mercy  to  a  little  town  known  as  De  Witt,  Iowa. 
Although  seemingly  insignificant  in  its  inception,  it  is 
noted  as  the  starting  point,  the  Bethlehem,  of  many 
famous,  thriving  houses  throughout  that  state. 

A  contingent  was  sent  in  1869  to  Harrisburg,  Pennsyl- 
vania, which  now  has  seven  branch  houses,  all  in  a  flour- 
ishing condition. 

1870  St.  Louis  Parish  School  was  opened  on  Polk  and 
Sherman  Streets,  but  was  destroyed  in  the  fire  of  1871. 

Two  Sisters  were  sent  in  1874  to  teach  in  the  base- 
ment of  St.  Mary's  Church  on  Wabash  Avenue  and  Eld- 
ridge  Court.  Being  too  damp  and  unsanitary  for  school 
purposes  it  was  closed  in  1880. 

In  1875  Rev.  E.  J.  Dunne,  afterward  Bishop  of  Dallas, 
Texas,  first  Pastor  of  All  Saints,  opened  a  school  on  Wal- 
lace and  Twenty-fifth  Streets  with  three  Sisters  and  about 
one  hundred  pupils.  They  now  have  ten  teachers  and  five 
hundred  and  eighty  pupils.  Many  priests  and  nuns  speak 
with  gratitude  of  their  call  to  a  higher  state  of  life  dur- 
ing the  early  religious  training  received  here.  Rev.  J. 
C.  Gillan  is  the  present  Pastor. 

1880  saw  Rev.  Maurice  Dorney  founding  the  new  par- 
ish of  St.  Gabriel's  and  in  1881  he  applied  for  Sisters  of 
Mercy  to  open  a  school.  Three  were  sent  daily  to  under- 
take the  work  on  Forty-fifth  and  Wallace  Streets.  In 
1883  the  new  Convent  was  ready  and  six  Sisters  went 
to  live  there.  In  1897  a  High  School  was  added.  Boys 
were  admitted  to  this  department  and  since  their  grad- 
uation they  are  a  credit  to  their  teachers.  Many  of  them 
are  filling  honorable  positions  in  every  state  of  life.  The 
school  is  free  to  all.  No  tuition  fee  is  required  except  for 
music.    The  register  shows  an  attendance  of  1800.    At 

252 


SAINT  XAVIER'S— CHICAGO 

present  the  teachers  number  twenty-nine  Sisters  and  five 
seculars.  A  commercial  department  forms  part  of  the 
curriculum.  Rev.  Father  Burke  leaves  nothing  undone 
to  promote  the  interests  of  the  school. 

In  1882  Rev.  Martin  Van  de  Laar,  Pastor  of  St.  Pat- 
rick's S.  Chicago,  secured  the  services  of  the  Sisters  for 
his  new  School.  A  High  School  department  was  one  of 
the  first  requisites,  so  in  1883  this  course  was  begun, 
thus  giving  to  St.  Patrick's  the  honor  of  opening  the  first 
parochial  High  School  in  Chicago.  It  continues  to  grad- 
uate noble  young  men  and  women  who  are  an  ornament 
to  any  sphere  in  life,  and  many  vocations  are  fostered  by 
the  zealous  priests  and  teachers.  There  are  now  six  hun- 
dred and  eighty-one  pupils  and  eighteen  teachers,  three 
of  whom  are  seculars. 

In  1883  St.  Agnes  School  commenced  in  Brighton  with 
three  teachers  and  one  hundred  and  thirty-five  pupils  and 
the  good  work  progressed  admirably  until  unfavorable 
conditions  developed  in  1899  and  the  Sisters  were  needed 
elsewhere. 

St.  Rose's  was  opened  with  three  Sisters  in  1885  and 
one  hundred  and  seventy-five  pupils  on  Forty-eighth 
Street  and  Marshfield  Avenue.  The  teachers  now  num- 
ber ten  Sisters  and  one  secular,  with  six  hundred  pupils. 
Rev.  D.  Hayes  is  the  Pastor. 

Another  parish  school  of  1885,  having  five  Sisters  and 
one  hundred  pupils  was  St.  Elizabeth's  on  State  Street 
and  Forty-first  now  located  in  the  fine  new  building  on 
Wabash  Avenue,  under  Rev.  D.  J.  Riordan,  the  zealous 
Pastor.  In  1891  the  High  School  department  opened  and 
continues  to  give  evidence  of  the  good  work  done  there. 
Several  of  its  graduates  have  become  religious,  and  many 
are  teachers  in  the  public  schools.  There  are  at  the  pres- 
ent on  the  teaching  staff  sixteen  Sisters  and  two  seculars 
with  an  attendance  of  six  hundred  and  fifty  students. 

253 


J    I      '  SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

In  1887  Holy  Angels  school  was  opened  on  Oakwood 
Boulevard,  during  the  pastorate  of  Rev.  D.  Tighe.  Four 
teachers  with  about  one  hundred  pupils  formed  the  begin- 
ning, now  there  are  seven  hundred  children  and  fifteen 
Sisters.  This  school  is  honored  by  the  Rt.  Rev.  A.  J. 
McGavick  for  Pastor. 

In  1893  Rev.  P.  M.  Flanagan  opened  St.  Anne's  School 
on  Garfield  Boulevard  and  Wentworth  Avenue.  Six  Sis- 
ters went  to  live  in  the  new  Convent  on  August  28th,  be- 
ginning with  four  hundred  pupils  and  having  almost  one 
thousand  in  1916.  The  good  Pastor  very  generously 
allowed  the  Community  all  the  receipts  including  music, 
promising  to  supply  the  deficit,  should  there  be  any.  It 
is  needless  to  say  that  there  is  a  surplus  each  year,  since 
attendance  is  very  large,  and  two  music  teachers  are  kept 
busy  in  their  Musical  College,  which  is  empowered  to 
confer  degrees.  A  very  fine  choir  and  a  well  equipped 
orchestra,  trained  by  the  Sisters,  are  composed  princi- 
pally of  former  pupils.  The  members  of  the  Alumni  are 
most  helpful  at  all  times,  and  the  Sisters  have  every 
reason  to  be  pleased  with  their  gratitude  and  loyalty. 
The  present  Pastor,  Rev.  E.  A.  Kelly,  has  not  been  out- 
done by  his  predecessor  in  kindness  and  generosity  to 
the  teaching  staff,  whose  labors  he  fully  appreciates,  and 
to  whom  he  is  in  every  way  a  devoted  father. 

In  1897  Mr.  C.  C.  Copeland  of  Libertyville,  111.,  deeded 
twenty  acres  of  ground  in  that  locality  to  Sister  Mary 
Raphael  of  Mercy  Hospital  for  the  consideration  of  one 
dollar.  In  1898  Rev.  Mother  Genevieve  built  a  two-story 
frame  structure  as  a  health  resort  for  the  vacations. 
Eventually  it  became  a  school  for  the  accommodation  of 
the  country  children  and  was  known  as  St.  Mary's 
Academy.  Owing  to  many  inconveniences  of  location, 
etc.,  it  was  closed  for  Academic  purposes  after  twelve 
years,  but  is  still  used  during  summer  vacations  by  the 
Sisters  for  relaxation. 

254 


SAINT  XAVIER'S— CHICAGO 

Rev.  E.  A.  Kelly  secured  the  services  of  the  Sisters  for 
St.  Cecelia's  School  in  September,  1901.  The  first  year 
registered  only  pupils  of  the  five  lower  grades;  each  of 
the  next  three  years  added  another  grade.  As  is  usual 
in  all  our  Schools  vocations  to  the  Sisterhood  and  the 
Priesthood  were  soon  developed.  For  seven  consecutive 
years,  from  September,  1905,  when  the  first  eighth  grade 
left  St.  Cecelia's,  young  men  from  each  class  have  entered 
the  Seminary  to  devote  their  lives  to  the  Ministry.  The 
first  young  man  hopes  to  be  ordained  in  1916.  Rev. 
Daniel  Croke  is  the  present  Pastor. 

In  1904  St.  Ita's  School  was  opened  in  Edgewater  with 
three  teachers  and  sixty-five  pupils.  At  present  there  are 
five  hundred  and  twenty  children,  twelve  Sisters  and  one 
secular  teacher.    Rev.  J.  H.  Crowe  is  Pastor. 

St.  Mary's  Training  School,  Desplaines,  Illinois,  had 
been  under  the  auspices  of  the  Christian  Brothers,  but  in 
1906  Archbishop  Quigley,  knowing  full  well  that  a 
woman's  motherly  care  is  always  needed  for  the  young, 
requested  the  Mother  Superior  at  St.  Xavier's,  at  that 
time  Rev.  Mother  Mary  de  Sales,  to  consider  the  advisa- 
bility of  sending  some  Sisters  to  undertake  the  work. 

It  was  a  grave  responsibility,  and  much  thought  and 
prayer  were  given  to  the  subject.  Finally  it  seemed  quite 
evident  that  Providence  wished  to  restore  to  the  Sisters 
this  work  of  mercy  which  had  been  theirs  on  Wabash 
Avenue  in  the  early  fifties,  and  which  they  had  carried 
on  with  such  maternal  solicitude  under  unspeakable  dif- 
ficulties until  in  1863  when  it  was  placed  under  the  man- 
agement of  the  Sisters  of  St.  Joseph  by  Bishop  Duggan, 
whose  sister  was  a  member  of  that  Order  at  the  time. 
Hence  on  July  1,  1906,  several  Sisters  were  sent  to  care 
for  the  boys,  who  then  numbered  nearly  four  hundred; 
now,  they  register  a  little  less  than  seven  hundred. 

A  few  years  later  the  girl's  building  was  thoroughly 
equipped  for  their  reception.    The  good  Archbishop  was 

255 


SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

always  intensely  interested  in  all  its  workings  and  left 
nothing  undone  to  make  it  a  model  institution,  as  well 
as  to  insure  the  comfort  and  happiness  of  the  homeless 
children.  It  is  open  to  the  public  for  investigation  at  any 
time. 

The  following  clippings  will  give  further  information 
on  this  subject.  From  the  "Record-Herald  of  May  6, 
1913,  we  take  this  notice: 

"MODEL  'HOME'  FOUND 

"Orphanage  Investigators  Declare  Feehanville  Institution 
a  'Revelation' 

"For  the  first  time  since  their  appointment  the  mem- 
bers of  the  Curran  legislative  committee  which  is  investi- 
gating orphanages  and  maternity  homes  passed  a  day  of 
unalloyed  pleasure  yesterday.  The  committee  journeyed 
out  to  Feehanville,  where  a  comprehensive  inspection  was 
made  of  the  St.  Mary's  Traning  School  for  Boys  and  the 
Chicago  Industrial  School  for  Girls. 

"These  institutions,  maintained  by  the  Catholic  Church, 
care  for  over  800  boys  and  girls,  orphans,  half-orphans 
or  dependents.  The  children  are  housed  in  new  build- 
ings, erected  at  a  cost  of  $900,000  and  situated  in  the 
middle  of  a  1,000-acre  farm. 

"The  visit  was  a  revelation  in  the  possibilities  of  such 
a  home  for  children.  Rev.  Father  James  M.  Doran  and 
Sisters  Mary  Geraldine  and  Agatha  of  the  Sisters  of 
Mercy  took  charge  of  the  visitors  and  showed  them  into 
every  nook  and  cranny  of  the  buildings,  which  cover  sev- 
eral acres. 

"The  most  conspicuous  feature  of  the  place  was  the 
absence  of  the  'Institution'  atmosphere.  The  children  do 
not  wear  uniforms,  neither  the  same  kind  of  clothes. 
They  look  more  like  pupils  in  a  boarding  school  than  in- 

256 


SAINT  XAVIER'S— CHICAGO 

mates  of  an  orphanage,  and  all  of  them  seemed  remark- 
ably happy. 

"The  committee  members  agreed  that  their  report 
probably  would  contain  recommendations  for  the  estab- 
lishment of  a  state  school  for  dependents,  and  were  unan- 
imous in  declaring  that  they  would  insist  on  holding  up 
the  Feehanville  institution  as  a  model  to  be  copied  by  the 
state. 

"Among  the  interesting  sights  at  the  school  were  the 
Ormsby  'quads,'  born  ten  years  ago  in  Chicago,  also 
another  Ormsby  boy.  The  school  authorities  also  pointed 
out  two  or  three  pairs  of  twins  and  a  large  number  of 
brothers  and  sisters.  The  policy  of  the  place  is  to  keep 
families  together  at  any  cost. 

"ST.  PATRICK'S  DAY  AT  ST.  MARY'S  TRAINING 

SCHOOL 

"Ladies'  Auxiliary  of  the  A.  0.  H.  Entertains  Little  Ones 
at  Des  Plaines  Institution 
"State  President  Mrs.  McWhorter  and  several  ladies 
of  the  Executive  Committee  of  the  County  Board,  Ladies' 
Auxiliary,  Ancient  Order  of  Hibernians,  visited  St. 
Mary's  Training  School  at  Des  Plaines,  111.,  on  Sunday, 
March  14,  and  took  out  with  them  a  regular  St.  Patrick's 
Day  program  for  the  entertainment  of  the  children.  On 
approaching  the  institution  the  Hibernian  visitors  were 
delighted  to  see  the  Irish  and  American  flags  artistically 
draped  over  the  entrance.  St.  Mary's  Training  School 
band  of  nearly  one  hundred  pieces  was  drawn  up  on  tht. 
lawn  and  greeted  the  visitors  by  playing  several  Ameri- 
can and  Irish  patriotic  airs.  Rev.  Father  Doran  and  a 
number  of  the  Sisters  met  the  visitors  at  the  door  and 
gave  them  a  true  Irish  welcome.  The  party,  accompanied 
by  the  Nuns  and  the  Reverend  Superintendent  adjourned 
to  the  assembly  hall,  where  1,000  happy  and  expectant 

257 


SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

little  boys  and  girls  were  already  gathered.  St.  Mary's 
Training  School  orchestra,  composed  of  boys  and  girls, 
opened  the  program  with  selections  of  Irish  airs,  splen- 
didly executed.  Father  Doran  welcomed  the  visitors  and 
spoke  of  the  significance  of  the  Feast  of  St.  Patrick,  after 
which  he  introduced  Mrs.  McWhorter  as  the  chairman 
of  the  program.  Mrs.  McWhorter  told  the  children  that 
the  Irish  were  always  happy,  but  more  especially  so  on 
St.  Patrick's  Day,  because  on  that  day  they  were  always 
reminded  that  St.  Patrick  brought  to  the  Emerald  Isle 
the  light  of  Holy  Faith  which  they  prized  so  highly  and 
never  had  lost  it. 

"Mr.  John  Kelly  and  Miss  Nell  McWhorter  sang  sev- 
eral solos  which  were  enthusiastically  applauded  by  the 
youthful  auditors,  as  was  also  the  singing  of  the  "Kerry 
Dance"  by  St.  Mary's  Training  School  chorus.  Master 
Vincent  Sheridan  gave  several  selections  and  Miss  Kate 
Meade,  State  Irish  History  Chairman  for  the  L.  A.  A.  O. 
H.,  told  in  a  charming  manner  many  fascinating  Irish 
fairy  tales  which  were  greatly  enjoyed  by  the  little  ones. 
The  real  hit  was  made  by  Professor  McNamara,  teacher 
of  Irish  dancing,  who  had  with  him  about  ten  of  his 
most  expert  little  girl  dancers,  the  youngest  a  little  one 
of  five.  They,  with  their  teacher,  danced  reels  and  jigs, 
single  and  double,  hornpipes  and  slip  jigs,  until  fairly 
exhausted,  and  still  the  youthful  auditors  seemed  to 
clamor  for  more.  The  program  was  brought  to  a  close 
by  the  boys'  band  playing  a  number  of  American  and 
Irish  airs.  The  visitors  were  then  treated  to  a  bountiful 
repast.  The  tables  were  artistically  decorated  with  the 
Irish  national  colors.  The  Sisters  and  Rev.  Father  Doran 
were  profuse  in  their  thanks  to  Mrs.  McWhorter  and  the 
members  of  the  Auxiliary  who  had  brought  the  children, 
as  well  as  themselves,  such  a  rare  bit  of  St.  Patrick  sun- 
shine. Before  leaving  the  visitors  were  conducted  all 
over  the  buildings  and  were  amazed  at  what  they  saw. 

258 


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Interior  View  of  the  Grotto  of  Our  Lady  of  Lourdes 


SAINT  XAVIER'S— CHICAGO 

There  is  not  a  thing  about  St.  Mary's  to  show  that  it  is 
an  orphanage;  rather  does  it  appear  more  like  an  up-to- 
date  academy  having  all  of  the  modern  equipments  of  an 
expensive  institution  of  learning,  and  indeed  such  it  is. 
The  boys  and  girls  are  afforded  the  best  in  the  way  of 
education,  they  are  given  the  best  in  the  way  of  musical 
and  vocal  instruction,  so  that  they  may  fit  themselves  for 
the  battle  of  life  in  which  ever  way  their  talents  lie." 

"FINDS  ORPHANS'  REAL  UTOPIA 
(From  Chicago  Tribune) 

"Sisters  of  Mercy  Methods  to  be  Urged  on  Other  Homes. 

"A  home  for  dependent  children  that  satisfied  every 
member  of  the  legislative  committee  investigating  homes 
was  discovered  yesterday  at  Feehanville,  111.  There  are 
two,  in  fact — the  St.  Mary's  Training  School  for  Boys 
and  the  Chicago  Industrial  School  for  Girls — both  con- 
ducted by  the  Sisters  of  Mercy. 

"The  committee  men  spent  the  entire  day  at  Feehan- 
ville, and  decided  that  when  they  recommended  remedial 
legislation  these  two  homes  should  be  utilized  as  models. 

"Chairman  Thomas  Curran  and  Dr.  F.  E.  J.  Lloyd 
were  loud  in  their  praise  of  conditions. 

"There  are  1,000  children  at  Feehanville — over  600 
boys  and  more  than  800  girls.  They  are  quartered  in 
buildings  valued  at  $900,000.  The  Rev.  James  M.  Doran 
is  superintendent.  The  commissioners  were  edified  by 
seeing  the  youthful  inmates  rush  frantically  at  the  Rev. 
Father  Doran  and  clasp  him  affectionately  by  a  leg,  a 
hand,  or  a  coat  tail. 

"They  also  witnessed  a  drill  of  a  cadet  corps  of  boys 
and  heard  a  cantata  sung  by  girls.  The  girls  were  seen 
making  shirtwaists  and  other  articles." 

The  committeemen  talked  to  the  children,  inspected  the 
buildings  and  were  pleased  to  notice  that  no  uniforms 
were  worn  by  either  boys  or  girls. 

259 


SISTERS  OF  MERCY 


THE  COLLEGE 

For  some  time  a  need  was  felt  in  Chicago  for  a  Catho- 
lic institution  for  young  women  desiring  to  pursue  ad- 
vanced study  permeated  with  Catholic  principles  and 
shaped  in  accordance  with  Catholic  ideals.  To  meet  this 
urgent  demand  the  Sisters  applied  for  a  charter  to  open 
a  college.  The  Blessed  Virgin  seems  to  have  been  their 
mediatrix  for  while  the  application  was  made  early  in 
January  the  charter  was  signed  and  filed  in  Springfield 
by  the  Secretary  of  State,  James  A.  Rose,  on  our  Blessed 
Mother's  feast,  March  25,  1912.  Degrees  were  conferred 
in  music  in  1913  and  1914,  but  certain  circumstances 
delayed  the  opening  of  the  College  proper  until  another 
another  feast,  the  birthday  of  our  special  Patroness,  Sep- 
tember 8,  1915.  The  College  title  is,  "The  Saint  Francis 
Xavier  College  for  Women." 

The  following  is  a  copy  of  the  seal  from  a  painting  by 
Sister  Mary  Beatrice. 


The  year  1916  has  seen  the  opening  of  two  new  schools, 
St.  Mary's  of  the  Lake,  on  the  North  Side.  Five  Sisters 
began  the  work  here.  Rev.  J.  J.  Dennison  is  pastor. 
Also  St.  Joachim's  at  Ninety-first  Street  and   Langley 

260 


SAINT  XAVIER'S— CHICAGO 

Avenue,  where  five  more  Sisters  are  laying  the  founda- 
tion of  a  very  promising  school.  Rev.  M.  Hanley  is 
pastor. 

When  the  new  Academy  at  Forty-ninth  Street  was 
built  it  faced  on  Evans  Avenue  which  ended  at  Fiftieth 
Street.  On  the  east  there  was  a  vacant  block  which  was 
considered  very  desirable  for  a  campus  for  the  pupils,  and 
the  Sisters  were  strongly  advised  by  Archbishop  Quigley 
at  his  first  visit  to  the  Academy  to  secure  it.  The  own- 
ers of  the  vacant  block  of  whom  there  were  several,  asked 
top  prices  when  they  discovered  the  Sisters  were  anxious 
for  it ;  so  the  matter  was  dropped  for  the  time  being,  and 
some  owners  began  to  plan  tenement  houses ;  one  actual- 
ly commenced  work  on  a  frame  building.  This  would 
never  do  as  Evans  Avenue  was  so  narrow  buildings  on 
the  other  side  of  it  would  darken  the  lower  stories  of  the 
Academy  and  certainly  would  not  be  very  ornamental. 

Shortly  after  the  death  of  Rev.  Mother  Mary  Gene- 
vieve Mr.  John  R.  Walsh,  who  had  always  been  a  kind 
friend,  took  the  whole  affair  into  his  own  hands.  He 
managed  it  skillfully,  engaging  private  real  estate  dealers 
to  buy  up  for  him  one  lot  after  another  at  a  reasonable 
price.  He  paid  for  it  by  a  loan  at  6  per  cent  placed  at 
St.  Xavier's  account,  in  his  bank.  When  his  bank  failed 
December  18,  1905,  the  Sisters  were  notified.  They 
arranged  to  redeem  their  notes  immediately,  and  by  the 
sale  of  some  property  $15,000  was  paid  down  and  the 
remainder  of  the  debt  was  merged  into  the  mortgage  on 
the  whole  property.  The  entire  block,  including  real 
estate  fees,  lawyer's  fees,  interest,  etc.,  cost  $135,799.72. 

How  to  surmount  the  difficulty  of  the  thoroughfare  be- 
tween this  block  and  the  Academy  was  a  dilemma.  Then 
it  was  suggested  that  application  be  made  for  an  ex- 
change of  that  section  of  Evans  Avenue  in  front  of  the 
Academy  from  Forty-ninth  to  Fiftieth  Streets  for  twenty- 
seven  (27)  feet  on  Langley  Avenue,  which  still  belonged 

261 


SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

to  the  Community.  The  case  was  referred  to  Alderman 
Ernest  Bihl,  chairman  of  the  Committee  on  Streets.  He 
was  most  gracious  and  presented  the  petition  to  the  City 
Council.  The  following  is  quoted  from  the  minutes  of 
the  meeting  held  by  that  body  on  January  22,  1906: 

Whereas,  The  Board  of  Trustees  of  St.  Xavier's  Acad- 
emy, located  between  Evans  Avenue  and  Langley  Avenue, 
between  49th  and  50th  Streets,  have  acquired  title  to  the 
property  lying  east  thereof  between  Cottage  Grove 
Avenue  and  Evans  Avenue  and  between  49th  and  50th 
Streets,  and  are  desirous  of  having  said  portion  of  Evans 
Avenue  vacated  so  as  to  lay  out  the  entire  square  as  a 
portion  of  the  grounds  of  said  institution;  and 

Whereas,  Said  portions  of  Langley  Avenue  is  but 
twenty-seven  feet  wide  and  in  lieu  of  the  vacation  of  said 
portion  of  Evans  Avenue  proposed  to  be  vacated,  they 
are  willing  to  dedicate  for  public  use  the  west  twenty- 
seven  (27)  feet  of  their  property  so  as  to  widen  said 
portion  of  Langley  Avenue;  and 

Whereas,  Evans  Avenue  terminates  on  the  south  at 
50th  Street  and  the  vacation  of  said  portion  of  Evans 
Avenue  and  the  widening  of  said  portion  of  Langley 
Avenue  would  be  of  advantage  to  the  public ;  now  there- 
fore, , 

Be  it  Ordained  by  the  City  Council  of  the  City  of  Chicago: 

Section  1.  That  that  portion  of  Evans  Avenue  lying 
between  the  south  line  of  49th  Street  and  the  north  line 
of  50th  Street,  in  the  City  of  Chicago,  be  and  the  same 
is  hereby  vacated ;  *  *  *  provided,  that  the  City  of  Chi- 
cago shall  have  the  right  to  enter  upon  the  portion  of 
Evans  Avenue  hereby  vacated  for  the  purpose  of  adjust- 
ing, repairing,  cleaning,  altering  or  changing  the  loca- 
tion of  any  water  mains,  water  pipes,  sewers  or  any  other 
public  works  which  may  be  in  said  street. 

262 


SAINT  XAVIER'S— CHICAGO 

Mayor  Dunne  signed  the  document  on  January  23, 
1906,  and  that  portion  of  Evans  Avenue  henceforth  be- 
longed to  the  St.  Xavier  Academy.  Shortly  after  prop- 
erty holders  on  Evans  Avenue  to  the  north  raised  objec- 
tions, and  though  the  papers  had  been  duly  signed,  and 
a  barrier  had  been  placed  on  each  side  shutting  off  this 
block  from  public  traffic,  they  did  all  in  their  power  to 
rescind  the  ordinance.  For  this  purpose  they  held  an 
indignation  meeting  at  7 :00  o'clock  on  a  certain  evening, 
but  at  the  same  hour  the  Sisters  repaired  to  the  Chapel 
and  before  the  Real  Presence  held  a  conference  with  our 
Lord.  Nothing  more  was  heard  of  the  Indignation  Meet- 
ing. 

OUR  GROTTO 

July  2,  1913,  witnessed  the  crowning  of  Sister  Mary 
Aloysius'  greatest  ambition,  the  consummation  of  her 
fondest  earthly  desires,  viz.:  the  completion  of  a  hand- 
some Grotto  of  Our  Lady  of  Lourdes  on  the  Academy 
grounds.  The  first  Mass  was  said  in  it  on  this  day  by  the 
worthy  Pastor,  Rev.  Thos.  O'Gara.  September  4,  an- 
other Mass  was  offered  in  it  by  Rev.  J.  J.  Lannon.  Many 
favors  have  been  obtained  by  the  devout  clients  of  Mary 
Immaculate  in  this  little  shrine. 

A  brass  tablet  suspended  on  one  side  of  the  wall  records 
in  large  black  letters,  the  following:  "In  thanksgiving 
for  a  special  favor  obtained  here — E.  E.  Ellenburg." 

The  building  of  the  Grotto  cost  $1,000;  the  Calcareous 
Tufa  used  in  it  was  $97;  the  statute  is  very  beautiful, 
costing  $150;  the  halo  $50;  Bernardette  $50;  two  angels 
$35.  Electricity  and  water  pipes  $125 ;  the  paved  walks 
$50. 

Sister  Mary  Aloysius  wishes  to  have  the  names  of  the 
donors  who  so  generously  helped  her  in  accomplishing 

263 


SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

this  work  to  honor  Our  Blessed  Lady,  inserted  in  this 
little  volume  and  thus  handed  down  to  their  posterity 
as  an  unfailing  token  of  their  devotion  to  Mary  Immacu- 
late; they  are  as  follows:  Archbishop  P.  W.  Riordan, 
Dr.  Caldwell,  Mrs.  Caldwell,  Mrs.  J.  Cudahy,  Mrs.  Ley- 
den,  Mr.  Hudson,  Mrs.  Hudson,  Dr.  Sullivan,  Miss  S. 
Keeler,  Mrs.  Deveny,  Mrs.  Williams,  Miss  O'Malley,  Mrs. 
D.  F.  Burke,  Miss  H.  Burke,  Mrs.  W.  Cahill,  Mr.  and  Mrs. 
Maher,  Miss  M.  Green,  Mrs.  Keeley,  Miss  Mitchell.  The 
Misses  Flanagan,  Miss  L.  Smith,  Mr.  Abbott,  Miss  K. 
Gillam,  Miss  C.  Horan,  Mrs.  Ortsifen,  Mrs.  Gunderson, 
Mrs.  McKinley,  Mr.  S.  C.  Scotten,  Mrs.  Engels,  Miss 
Engels,  Mrs.  J.  Ryan,  Mrs.  N.  Ryan.  Several  Sisters  also 
donated  gifts  given  to  them  by  their  friends. 


Hymn  For  May 

Air — "Come  With  Thy  Lute  to  the  Fountain' 

Ave  purissima!  Ave! 
Listen  we  pray  to  our  salve. 

Hailing  thee  Queen  of  the  May. 
Truly  we  love  thee,  sweet  Mother, 
Love  thee  above  ev'ry  other — 
Save  only  Jesus  our  Way. 
Queen  of  the  May, 
Queen  of  the  May! 

Ave  Maria,  0  hear  us. 

Come  blessed  Mother  to  cheer  us, 

During  this  life's  cloudy  day. 
Be  our  sweet  Mother  forever ; 
Help  us  our  hearts  now  to  sever 
From  earth's  delusions  so  gay. 
Queen  of  the  May, 
Queen  of  the  May! 

264 


SAINT  XAVIER'S— CHICAGO 

Queen  of  our  souls  now  we  choose  thee, 
Can  we  then  aught  e'er  refuse  thee, 

While  our  life  onward  still  rolls? 
Only  too  happy  thou'lt  make  us, 
If  thou  wilt  never  forsake  us, 
0,  thou  dear  Queen  of  our  souls ! 
Queen  of  our  souls, 
Queen  of  our  souls! 

Of  all  fair  maidens  the  fairest, 
Midst  Heaven's  treasures  the  rarest. 
Think  of  us  here  'midst  the  shoals. 
Strengthen,  0  strengthen  our  weakness; 
Teach  us  the  Holy  One's  meekness. 
Queen  of  our  hearts  and  our  souls, 
Queen  of  our  souls, 
Queen  of  our  souls! 

OUR  CHAPEL 

This  beautiful  apartment  of  the  Academy  set  apart  for 
the  worship  of  our  Heavenly  Father  is  all  that  the  heart 
could  wish  in  architecture  and  ornamentation.  The  Sta- 
tions, painted  some  years  ago  by  Sr.  Mary  Pius  and  Sis- 
ter Mary  Beatrice,  assisted  by  Miss  Cavanaugh,  a  for- 
mer pupil,  are  copies  of  those  done  in  Rome  by  Galliardi 
and  ordered  by  Archbishop  Feehan  for  his  sister,  Rev. 
M.  Catherine  of  St.  Patrick's  Academy.  They  are  con- 
sidered works  of  art  and  are  the  admiration  of  con- 
noiseurs. 

But  the  crowning  work  of  this  year,  1916,  is  that  in 
which  Sister  Mary  Fidelis  has  just  completed  twenty-two 
large  panels  representing  as  many  scenes  from  the  life 
of  our  Blessed  Lord  and  His  holy  Mother.  Since  they 
have  been  placed  on  the  ceiling  and  the  decorations  fin- 
ished the  chapel  has  been  compared  by  many  to  a  para- 
dise on  earth. 

265 


SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

The  harmony  is  perfect  and  the  figures  are  in  exquisite 
proportions,  so  we  may  truly  say  our  chapel  has  been 
beautified  beyond  our  fondest  expectations.  Sister  Mary 
Fidelis  has  without  doubt  shown  her  natural  talent  for 
art  in  a  marvellous  manner,  and  the  many  elevations  of 
heart  and  soul,  induced  by  her  beautiful  representations, 
must  redound  to  her  merit  in  the  great  hereafter. 

Credit  must  also  be  accorded  to  Mr.  B.  Mellerio  and 
his  brother,  for  the  exquisite  decorations  in  which  they 
have  shown  the  true  artistic  instinct.  The  beauties  of 
the  architecture  have  been  emphasized  and  brought  out 
to  perfection  by  the  delicacy  and  skillfulness  of  their 
treatment. 


966 


>    < 


CHAPTER  NINETEEN 

Mercy  Hospital  opens  its  first  doors  in  1851. 
Its  present  location  and  rapid  growth.  Train- 
ing- School  for  Nurses  well  established.  Sis- 
ter Mary  Raphael,  local  Superior. 


CHAPTER  NINETEEN 

An  extract  from  a  letter  written  by  Rev.  Mother 
Agatha,  Feb.  7,  1851,  to  Sister  Mary  Scholastica  in 
Galena  runs  thus : 

"Next  week  we  are  to  take  possession  of  the  Lake 
House  and  commence  hospital  work.  This  is  for  us,  sit- 
uated as  we  are,  a  great  undertaking,  but  I  trust  our 
Father  in  Heaven  will  aid  His  feeble  children  in  the  good 
work.  Ask  all  the  dear  Sisters  to  unite  with  us  in  prayer 
that  all  will  be  well." 

It  would  be  impossible  in  our  limited  space  to  enter  into 
particulars  concerning  the  growth  of  Mercy  Hospital 
since  its  inception.  In  1853  it  was  moved  from  the  Lake 
Shore,  north,  to  Wabash  Avenue  on  the  south.  We  must 
refer  our  readers  to  the  late  "Hospital  Report."  How- 
ever, lest  there  may  be  some  who  shall  never  have  the 
opportunity  of  seeing  said  report  we  will  give  extracts 
from  it: 

"In  pace  with  the  giant  strides  of  a  great  city  the  Hos- 
pital grew  from  a  small  ramshackle  frame  building  on 
the  lake  shore  in  1851,  to  its  present  grand  proportions. 

"The  lake  shore  house  proved  altogether  inadequate 
and  the  Sisters  purchased  the  historic  old  Tippecanoe 
Hall  in  1851  and  remodeled  it  for  hospital  use.  From 
this  location  the  Hospital  in  1853  was  removed  to  a 
building  which  had  been  erected  for  an  Orphanage  on 
Wabash  Avenue  near  Van  Buren  Street.  Several  years 
after  (1863)  another  removal  was  necessary,  this  time  to 
a  fine  large  building  used  for  a  young  ladies'  Seminary, 
St.  Agatha's  Academy.  The  present  site  bounded  by  Cal- 
umet Avenue,  Twenty-sixth  Street  and  Prairie  Avenue^ 

269 


SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

was  purchased  in  1853  for  the  small  sum  of  $600  with 
the  first  money  saved  up  by  the  Sisters  for  an  Academy. 

"The  group  of  buildings  which  at  the  present  time  con- 
stitutes Mercy  Hospital  dates  from  1868,  when  the  comer- 
stone  of  the  first  addition  was  laid  on  Calumet  Avenue 
and  Twenty-sixth  Street. 

"In  1893  the  Hospital  was  enlarged  by  a  new  wing  on 
Twenty-sixth  Street  containing  four  stories  and  a  base- 
ment, and  the  original  structure  was  remodeled  to  con- 
form with  modern  requirements.  This  it  was  thought 
would  meet  the  demand  for  many  years  to  come  but  the 
rapid  growth  of  Chicago  and  the  corresponding  increase 
of  patients  at  the  Hospital  soon  again  taxed  the  facilities 
of  the  institution  to  the  limit,  and  necessitated  another 
addition.  In  1896  the  old  building  of  the  Chicago  Med- 
ical College  on  the  corner  of  Prairie  Avenue  and  Twenty- 
sixth  Street  was  torn  down  and  in  its  place  a  structure 
was  built  to  harmonize  in  style  with  the  main  building. 
This  increased  the  capacity  of  the  Hospital  by  two  large 
wards  and  fifty  private  rooms,  adding  nearly  one  hun- 
dred beds  to  the  institution. 

"The  new  addition,  together  with  the  necessary  re- 
modeling to  make  all  the  buildings  conform,  was  intended 
to  cover  the  needs  of  at  least  one  or  two  generations,  but 
again  all  forecasts  proved  wrong  and  in  1906  the  Sisters 
were  obliged  to  consult  their  architect  anew  and  prepare 
for  the  erection  of  another  addition. 

"The  new  wing,  or  Mercy  Hospital  Annex,  as  it  is 
usually  designated,  was  completed  in  1908.  It  is  an 
attractive  structure  of  considerable  extent,  having  a  west 
frontage  of  about  one  hundred  and  fifty  feet  on  Prairie 
Avenue  and  a  south  frontage  on  Twenty-sixth  Street  of 
seventy  feet,  with  a  corresponding  frontage  on  the  north, 
opening  on  the  private  grounds  of  the  Hospital.  It  is 
designed  in  that  new  classic  style,  so  apparently  favored 
in  the  present  and  adapted  largely  from  the  old  Colonial 
architecture  of  a  past  generation. 

270 


SAINT  XAVIER'S— CHICAGO  ' 

"The  main  entrance  on  Prairie  Avenue  is  defined  by  an 
Ionic  portico  in  solid  cut  stone  and  leads  directly  through 
a  flight  of  stone  steps  to  the  central  vestibule.  Within 
this  vestibule  a  short  staircase  and  open  balustrade  of 
pure  carrara  marble  and  a  wainscoting  of  like  material 
lend  a  refined  air  of  elegance  to  the  entrance. 

"This  entire  wing  is  of  the  most  modern  and  approved 
fireproof  construction  throughout.  All  corridors  and 
approaches  are  paved  with  ceramic  tile,  and  all  private 
and  toilet  rooms  are  finished  in  the  same.  The  main  cor- 
ridors are  all  wainscoted  in  marble  and  the  finished  wood- 
work is  in  mahogany. 

"A  striking  feature  of  this  modern  wing  is  the  absence 
of  all  gloom  and  that  'hospital  air'  usually  found  in  these 
institutions.  The  impression  conveyed  to  the  visitor  is 
rather  that  of  a  well-appointed  hotel.  It  is  a  place  where 
the  patient  is  assured  of  all  the  privacy  and  comfort  of  a 
well-equipped  home,  together  with  all  that  the  highest 
medical  care  and  the  most  experienced  nursing  can  do 
for  his  physical  welfare. 

"Statistics  gathered  from  the  Sister  in  charge  of  the 
large  kitchen  in  the  basement  will  give  an  idea  of  the 
amount  of  food  daily  prepared  for  the  small  army  of 
patients,  nurses,  attendants  and  others.  Four  hundred 
pounds  of  meat  are  prepared  daily,  with  vegetables,  deli- 
cacies, etc.,  in  proportion.  The  daily  consumption  of 
coffee,  tea,  etc.,  is  enormous.  About  forty-five  gallons  of 
the  fragrant  mocha  or  one  and  one-half  barrels,  nearly 
double  that  amount  of  tea,  and  twelve  cans — ninety-six 
gallons — of  milk  constitute  the  average  daily  amount 
used.  Two  barrels  of  flour  are  daily  converted  into 
bread  and  biscuit  by  the  baker;  of  eggs,  about  twelve 
cases  are  used  each  day,  and  the  daily  consumption  of 
butter  amounts  to  two  hundred  and  twenty-five  pounds, 
while  two  and  one-half  barrels  of  sugar  are  required  to 
supply  the  sweetening. 

271 


SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

"Three  passenger  elevators  add  to  the  convenience  of 
reaching  every  part  of  the  Hospital  quickly  and  easily, 
while  one  large  elevator  is  used  exclusively  for  freight. 
The  power  necessary  for  all  purposes  is  furnished  by 
five  large  boilers  giving  a  power  equivalent  to  that  of  450 
horses.  These  boilers  are  located  in  the  engine  house  at 
the  rear  of  the  Hospital  and  are  always  in  charge  of  a 
competent  engineer.  Although  the  steam  plant  is  large, 
and  soft  coal  the  fuel  used,  no  great  clouds  of  smoke  are 
ever  seen  pouring  forth  from  the  towering  chimney,  dark- 
ening the  air  to  the  disgust  of  neighboring  residents.  ,  A 
simple  device  attached  to  the  furnace  operates  as  a  smoke 
consumer  thus  rendering  the  smoke-nuisance,  as  applied 
to  Mercy  Hospital,  an  unknown  quantity.  Besides  run- 
ning the  elevator  and  laundry  machinery,  steam  power 
forces  water,  both  hot  and  cold,  to  large  tanks  at  the  top 
of  the  building,  whence  it  flows  by  gravity  to  every  faucet 
throughout  the  Hospital.  In  addition,  an  average  of  five 
hundred  gallons  of  sterilized  water  is  furnished  daily  to 
the  several  operating  rooms. 

"From  the  records  of  the  supply  room,  which  sends  to 
the  operating  rooms  all  material  there  used,  we  glean  the 
following  information :  Last  year  there  were  used  147,- 
124  yards  of  gauze,  1,522  pounds  of  absorbent  cotton,  the 
same  amount  of  non-absorbent  cotton;  7,200  yards  of 
muslin  for  bandages;  ether  for  anaesthesia,  1,200  pounds; 
adhesive  plaster,  400  rolls  (one  roll  equals  5  yards) ; 
sterile  catgut  in  glass  tubes,  7,488  tubes ;  sterile  kangaroo 
tendon  in  glass  tubes,  400  tubes ;  raw  silk  gut,  5,000  liga- 
tures. The  cost  of  this  material  with  anesthetics  and 
other  incidentals  makes  the  expense  for  operating  rooms 
run  up  to  many  thousands  of  dollars.  Most  of  this  may 
be  called  gratuitous  outlay  for  the  benefit  of  the  injured 
and  those  undergoing  operations,  for  only  a  small  portion 
of  this  amount  is  ever  paid  by  the  patients. 

"In  fact  the  supply  department  is  thoroughly  equipped 

272 


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SAINT  XAVIER'S— CHICAGO 

for  the  sterilization  of  all  dressing  material,  etc.,  and 
the  preservation  of  same  in  aseptic  state.  Not  only  are 
the  operating  rooms  supplied  and  the  patients  in  the  Hos- 
pital taken  care  of  in  this  respect,  but  the  Sister  in  charge 
of  the  supply  room  has  so  perfected  her  system  that  her 
solicitous  care  follows  the  patient  even  after  he  has  left 
the  Hospital  for  his  home.  In  a  neatly  printed  circular 
she  has  arranged  a  list  of  general  and  special  outfits  to 
meet  the  wants  of  different  diseases,  and  when  the  patient 
leaves  the  Hospital  he  is  given  the  outfit  to  suit  his  case 
— a  package  containing  bandages  and  all  other  accesso- 
ries— so  that  in  case  of  necessity  he  may  dress  his  own 
injury.  Another  good  feature  added  to  the  supply  room 
by  the  present  superintendent  is  the  preparation  of  gen- 
eral and  special  outfits  for  physicians  and  surgeons  in 
general.  If  any  surgeon  has  a  case  which  he  intends  to 
treat  away  from  the  Hospital  he  need  not  worry  about 
the  attendant  detail  of  preparation.  All  he  needs  is  to 
call  at  the  supply  room  and  tell  the  Sister  for  what  par- 
ticular operation  he  is  preparing.  In  a  neat  folding  box 
he  can  secure  a  complete  outfit  from  a  rubber  sheet,  sur- 
geon's gown,  table  cover,  bandages,  sponges,  and  dress- 
ings to  asceptics,  chloroform,  safety  pins,  tape,  and  in 
fact  all  the  essentials  required  for  his  operation. 

"Akin  in  nature  to  the  supply  room  is  the  pharmacy 
of  the  Hospital.  On  its  well-stocked  shelves  can  be  found 
every  drug  known  to  science.  No  matter  what  the  cost 
may  be  the  pure  article  is  always  purchased  and  while  the 
Sisters  may  stint  themselves  and  practice  economy  in  a 
thousand  different  ways,  when  it  comes  to  purchases  for 
the  pharmacy  or  supply  room  only  the  purest  and  best  to 
be  had  in  the  markets  of  the  world  will  satisfy  them. 
There  are  always  dispensing  cabinets  on  each  floor,  which 
are  a  great  help  to  the  nurses.  The  pharmacy  is  in 
charge  of  a  Sister.  There  are  three  Sisters  registered 
pharmacists  in  the  Hospital  and  two  at  the  Mother 
House. 

273 


SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

'And  so  we  might  go  on  indefinitely  describing  lecture 
rooms,  operating  rooms,  x-ray  department,  emergency 
rooms,  pathological  laboratory,  children's  ward,  rooms — 
private,  single  and  en  suite — rest  rooms,  wards,  chapel, 
grotto,  etc. 

"In  1889  Mercy  Hospital  School  for  Nurses  was  regu- 
larly organized  and  a  charter  was  secured  from  the  state 
in  1892.  A  change  was  made  in  1901  from  the  old  two- 
years'  course  with  one  month's  probation,  to  a  three- 
years'  course  with  two  months  probation.  In  1905  the 
School  affiliated  with  Northwestern  University.  That 
year's  class  of  nurses  graduated  with  the  students  of  the 
University  and  the  nurses  of  Mercy  Hospital  have  done 
so  each  year  since.  Affiliation  with  the  Northwestern 
University  gives  to  the  student  nurses  the  advantage  of 
laboratories  of  the  medical  school  of  the  institution  and 
they  receive  their  theoretical  course  under  the  direction 
of  the  faculty  of  the  University. 

"The  Nurses'  Home  is  under  the  supervision  of  a  Sis- 
ter who  gives  careful  attention  to  their  health  and  aims 
to  make  their  surroundings  as  home-like  as  possible. 
They  are  carefully  guarded  and  the  regulations  are  only 
those  needed  in  a  refined  home  where  educated  earnest 
women  reside.  At  present  there  are  over  one  hundred  in 
the  School. 

"The  new  Home  for  Nurses,  now  completed  on  Prairie 
Avenue,  one  hundred  feet  north  of  the  Administration 
Building  of  the  Hospital,  with  the  architecture  of  which 
it  corresponds,  is  of  fireproof  construction  and  has  the 
most  approved  and  modern  equipment. 

"On  the  ground  floor  is  located  the  Diet  Kitchen,  Help's 
Dining  Room,  Laundry,  Ironing  Room,  Trunk  Rooms  and 
Store  Rooms  and  on  the  main  floor  the  Reception  Rooms, 
Study  Hall,  Library,  etc.  The  upper  floors  contain  the 
private  rooms,  each  with  lavatory  and  toilet  attached, 
affording  accommodations  for  one  hundred  and  twenty- 

274 


1 


New  Home  for  Nurses,  Mercy  Hospital 
Prairie  Ave. 


SAINT  XAVIER'S— CHICAGO 

five  nurses.  On  every  floor  is  a  work-room  with  slop- 
sink,  dust  and  clothes  chutes,  and  a  general  bath-room 
with  baths  and  shampoo  stands.  The  corridors  through- 
out have  mosaic  floors  with  marble  base;  and  two  flights 
of  iron  stairs  with  mosaic  treads  extend  from  basement 
to  attic.  In  addition  there  is  a  passenger  elevator  of  the 
electric  push  button  self-operating  type.  On  the  east  ele- 
vation, connecting  the  main  corridor  of  each  floor,  are 
spacious  porches  with  an  independent  fireproof  stair 
leading  to  the  terrace. 

"The  building  cost  two  hundred  thousand  dollars  and 
was  erected  from  the  plans  and  under  the  supervision  of 
Egan  &  Prindeville. 

"Candidates  wishing  to  obtain  the  course  of  instruc- 
tion must  apply  personally  or  by  letter  to  the  Superin- 
tendent of  Nurses.  Those  applying  by  letter  should 
enclose  statements  from  two  clergymen  testifying  to  good 
moral  character  and  qualifications  for  undertaking  pro- 
fessional work  and  from  a  physician  certifying  to  sound 
health  and  unimpaired  faculties.  No  candidate  is  con- 
sidered who  is  not  in  good  physical  condition, 

"At  the  end  of  three  years  students  who  have  com- 
pleted the  required  course  in  theory  and  practice,  upon 
the  recommendation  of  the  Hospital  faculty,  receive  their 
diplomas  at  the  graduating  exercises  of  the  Northwest- 
ern University. 

"An  Alumnae  Association  was  organized  in  1901  and 
in  1902  affiliated  with  the  "American  Nurses'  Associa- 
tion." Graduates  number  about  four  hundred  and  most 
of  them  are  active  members  of  the  Alumnae  Association." 

Sister  Mary  Raphael 

A  veil  of  sadness  o'ershadows  Mercy  Hospital  in  the 
illness  of  its  beloved  local  Superior.  For  about  forty 
years  Sister  Mary  Raphael  has  been  the  guiding  spirit 
of  this  great  institution. 

275 


SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

Born  in  Hamilton,  Canada,  June  6,  1842,  Mary  Ann 
McGill,  when  eighteen  years  of  age,  bearing  a  letter  from 
Bishop  Farrell  of  Hamilton,  was  en  route  to  Chicago  un- 
decided as  to  what  order  she  would  join.  Bishop  Dug- 
gan  of  Chicago  and  Bishop  Smith  of  Omaha  were  on  the 
same  train  and  learning  her  intentions  spoke  to  her  of 
the  Mercy  Order.  She  decided  on  judging  for  herself 
by  visiting  those  Sisters.     So  it  happened  that  May  6, 

1860,  she  entered  the  Community  and  on  February  6, 

1861,  she  received  the  White  Veil  of  the  novice  and  also 
the  name  of  the  great  Archangel  Raphael. 

In  those  distressing  war  days  the  usual  ceremonies 
were  sometimes  deferred,  owing  to  the  absence  of  the 
good  Bishop,  whose  health  was  in  the  balance,  and  also 
of  the  Mother  Superior  who  had  accompanied  a  contin- 
gent of  Sisters  and  other  nurses  to  the  war  zone;  there- 
fore Sister  Mary  Raphael's  profession  did  not  take  place 
until  January  6,  1864,  when  she  made  her  perpetual  vows 
together  with  three  others  who  have  since  gone  to  enjoy 
the  reward  of  their  earthly  labors.  Those  were  very 
strenuous  times  and  all  the  members  were  taxed  almost 
beyond  their  strength  in  the  many  avocations  of  the 
young  Community. 

She  was  employed  in  the  schools  and  in  several  house- 
hold duties  for  which  she  showed  great  aptitude. 

Given  charge  of  St.  James  parish  school  she  and  her 
companion  had  to  go  afoot  from  the  old  convent  on 
Wabash  near  Madison  Street  in  all  kinds  of  weather  to 
this  school,  then  located  on  Prairie  near  Twenty-eighth 
Street,  teaching  in  a  cold  damp  basement,  having  only 
in  winter  a  frozen  noon  luncheon  with  which  to  refresh 
themselves.  Nothing  was  too  difficult  for  her  youthful 
zeal  for  the  little  ones  entrusted  to  her  care,  but  the  great 
fire  came  and  she  was  given  her  share  of  the  numerous 
labors  in  nursing  the  many  victims  of  that  calamity.  It 
was  then  discovered  that  her  talent  lay  in  that  direction 

276 


Sister  Mary  Raphael  McGill 


1 


SAINT  XAVIER'S— CHICAGO 

especially  when  business  grew  apace  and  the  Hospital 
needed  a  strong  hand  to  manage  its  financial  affairs  and 
make  it  self-supporting.  Her  devotion  to  St.  Joseph  as 
the  patron  of  the  institution  is  remarkable  and  she 
always  has  some  special  novena  going  on  in  his  honor. 
On  one  occasion  she  told  a  Sister  she  had  resolved  never 
to  refuse  any  object  of  charity  brought  her  on  Wednes- 
day, which  is  devoted  to  the  saint,  and  she  always  had 
plenty  of  them  though  outsiders  never  knew  it. 

Many  of  those  latter  sometimes  remarked  that  "Mercy" 
did  not  take  free  patients.  What  should  we  call  it  when 
sick  people  come  and  make  a  deposit  for  a  few  weeks 
or  even  a  month,  remain  years  or  more  with  no  more 
funds  to  fall  back  on?  Now  this  frequently  happens  but 
Sister  Mary  Raphael  does  not  advertise  such  works  of 
charity  and  therefore  people  are  in  ignorance  of  many 
deeds  of  this  kind. 

As  time  marched  rapidly  on  the  Hospital  could  not 
accommodate  the  numbers  applying,  nor  satisfy  the  de- 
mands of  medical  men,  hence  wing  after  wing  went  up 
under  her  supervision  and  still  the  cry  is  always — "more 
room."  The  New  Home  for  Nurses  on  Prairie  Avenue 
is  a  beautiful  structure  of  her  designing. 

The  munificence  of  Mr.  Ferris  S.  Thompson  of  Paris, 
formerly  of  New  York,  with  whom  the  Sisters  were  un- 
acquainted but  who  learned  of  the  needs  of  the  Hospital 
from  a  friend,  made  it  possible  to  erect  this  building, 
completed  in  1914. 

Later,  when  Sister  Mary  Raphael  found  that  a  portion 
of  the  older  building  was  condemned,  she  planned  a  com- 
modious wing  to  replace  it.  This  wing  is  now  complete. 
Sister  being  encouraged  to  incur  the  debt  by  the  gener- 
osity of  the  late  Mr.  Charles  Haines  of  St.  Charles,  111., 
whose  sister  Malvina  had  been  a  pupil  of  the  Sisters  and 
later  had  become  a  patient  at  "Mercy." 

Sr.  Mary  Raphael's  financial  abilities  render  her  the 

277 


SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

marvel  of  her  day.  A  noted  member  of  the  medical 
staff  remarked,  "She  is  the  most  level-headed  woman  I 
have  ever  met."  Again  it  was  asked — "What  training 
did  she  receive  for  this  work?"  None  but  what  all 
receive  in  a  general  way.  So  it  is  inborn  talent,  with 
God's  ever-present  help,  that  brings  her  through  all  diffi- 
culties and  strengthens  her  to  surmount  all  obstacles. 

The  following  poem  was  written  by  a  patient  in  Mercy 
Hospital.  Her  history  was  most  pathetic,  and  she  shows 
in  these  lines  her  appreciation  of  the  kindness  received 
at  the  institution : 

The  Sister  of  Mercy 

She  flits  about  with  silent  tread, 

Her  robes  are  dark  and  plain ; 
She  seems  to  think  of  naught  in  life, 

But  to  soothe  and  comfort  pain. 
Sometimes  she's  slender,  dark  and  tall, 

Sometimes  she's  stout  and  fair ; 
But  the  grace  and  love  and  the  helpful  smile 

Are  always,  always  there. 

Perhaps  'tis  only  a  cup  of  beef  tea 

That  she  offers  with  smile  divine, 
But  it's  just  as  full  of  strength  and  grace 

As  sparkling,  rare,  old  wine. 
Or  perhaps  'tis  just  a  healing  draught 

That  she  brings  to  soothe  my  pain. 
But  the  gentle  touch  and  kindly  eyes 

Are  always  just  the  same. 

When  the  tender  face  bends  o'er  me, 

In  its  spotless  linen  frame, 
My  heart  goes  out  in  warmest  love, 

Though  I  do  not  know  her  name. 

278 


SAINT  XAVIER'S— CHICAGO 

O  list  to  me  fair  fashion's  dames 

And  when  you  have  a  dull  day, 
Come,  watch  these  Sisters  of  Mercy  here, 

And  take  some  lessons  away. 

Wonderful  lessons  of  patience  these. 

Wonderful  lessons  of  love; 
Surely  they  gladden  the  saintly  ones 

And  the  loving  Father  above. 
0  dear,  dear  Sisters  of  Mercy, 

O  women  of  tender  grace! 
Do  you  think  I  shall  ever  forget  you 

When  I  leave  this  wonderful  place? 

Never,  never,  dear  Sisters, 

Never,  while  life  shall  last; 
With  chains  of  love  and  gratitude 

You've  bound  my  poor  heart  fast. 
I'll  soon  be  going  now.  Sisters, 

Out  to  the  world  once  more, 
And  I'll  have  some  loads  to  carry 

That  I  did  not  have  before. 

I've  tried  to  be  brave,  dear  Sisters, 

And  you  have  helped  me  much. 
With  your  smiles,  your  care  and  your  patience, 

There's  hope  in  your  very  trust. 
And  tho'  we  never  meet,  dear  Sisters, 

Till  called  by  a  Master  Divine, 
Be  sure  that  about  you  ever 

Will  my  warmest  affection  entwine. 

—M.  R,  C. 


279 


Most  Reverend  George  W.  Mundelein,  D.  D. 
archbishop  of  chicago 


CHAPTER  TWENTY 

Most  Rev.  Geo.  W.  Mundelein,  third  Arch- 
bishop. His  magnificent  welcome  from  Chi- 
cago's people.  Over  two  thousand  priests  and 
people,  meet  him.  His  eloquent  address  on 
this  occasion. 


CHAPTER  TWENTY 
Most  Rev.  George  William  Mundelein,  D.D. 

Many  were  the  fervent  prayers  wafted  heavenward  by 
priests  and  people  of  the  widowed  church  of  Chicagro 
for  a  worthy  successor  to  the  beloved  Father  whom  Al- 
mighty God  had  called  to  his  eternal  rest.  And  surely 
their  petitions  have  been  answered  far  beyond  their  fond- 
est anticipations  for  the  new  Archbishop  in  a  short  time 
has  drawn  every  heart  to  himself  and  bids  fair  to  bind 
them  one  and  all  in  the  magnificent  circle  of  Catholic 
unity  about  the  throne  of  God. 

The  great  ovations  given  his  Grace  by  the  people  of 
Chicago  speak  well  for  the  loyalty  of  priests  and  people 
to  the  grand  old  Mother  Church,  and  must  draw  down 
the  blessing  of  the  Almighty  Father  on  all. 

When  the  announcement  came  that  a  perfect  stranger 
from  the  east  was  appointed  for  the  great  archdiocese 
of  Chicago,  surprise  was  depicted  on  every  countenance, 
but  Rome  had  spoken  and  it  was  clear  to  all  that  God  had 
spoken  through  Rome,  therefore  it  did  not  take  long  to 
sound  the  key-note  of  submission,  which  soon  burst  forth 
into  the  pleasing  harmony  of  union  and  loyalty. 

Arriving  in  Chicago  on  the  eighth  of  February,  the 
morning  of  the  ninth  saw  the  immense  assemblage  of 
over  two  thousand  priests  and  people  in  the  Cathedral 
where  Archbishop  Bonzano,  the  papal  delegate,  per- 
formed the  ceremony  of  installation.  In  his  address  on 
this  occasion  the  Archbishop  showed  deep  feelings  of  ten- 
derness welling  up  from  the  heart  and  it  soon  became 
evident  that  his  words  reached  the  hearts  of  his  audi- 
ence. Henceforth  they  are  his  very  own — ^his  children, 
and  he  is  indeed  their  father. 

283 


SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

In  the  very  beautiful  address  by  Mgr.  M.  J.  Fitzsim- 
mons  he  said,  among  other  things,  "Speaking  for  the 
clergy  of  the  present  archdiocese  we  assure  you  of  a 
most  hearty  welcome,  eight  hundred  fold,  and  promise 
hearty  co-operations  *  *  *" 

"The  diocese  that  your  grace  will  govern  comprises  six 
counties  with  a  Catholic  population  of  over  a  million 
souls.  It  has  an  equipment  of  three  hundred  seventeen 
churches,  eight  hundred  priests,  and  a  total  of  four  hun- 
dred thirteen  parochial  schools,  colleges,  and  academies, 
with  an  attendance  of  119,000  pupils.  Our  parochial 
schools  number  two  hundred  seventy-four,  with  113,000 
children.  There  are  twelve  orphan  asylums,  a  Catholic 
home  for  the  friendless,  and  a  diocesan  college  which 
gives  ample  opportunity  to  young  men  without  means 
who  desire  to  study  for  the  priesthood. 

"Your  official  duties,  your  grace,  will  be  arduous,  but 
there  is  a  Providence  in  our  lives,  and  the  God  who  has 
placed  the  burden  on  your  shoulders  will  make  it  light. 

"In  conclusion  we  pledge  you  our  loyal  support.  We 
pray  Almighty  God  that  through  His  consolations  the 
heat  of  the  day  may  be  tempered  and  its  burden  lightened. 
We  entreat  Him  that  your  stewardship  may  endure  unto 
length  of  days  in  the  enjoyment  of  physical  vigor  and 
spiritual  blessings;  that  peace  and  prosperity  may  ever 
attend  the  church  in  Chicago  for  His  greater  glory  and 
your  immortal  crown." 

Address  of 

His  Grace,  Most  Rev.  George  W.  Mundelein,  D.D., 
Archbishop  of  Chicago 

Your  Excellency:  Let  my  first  act,  after  taking  pos- 
session of  this  Metropolitan  Church  of  Chicago,  be  to 
welcome  among  us  the  representative  of  our  Holy  Father. 
To  him,  our  Sovereign  Pontiff,  I  pledge  for  myself,  for 
my  clergy,  and  for  my  people  absolute,  unswerving  loyal- 

284 


SAINT  XAVIER'S— CHICAGO 

ty,  obedience  and  devotion.  His  word  is  our  law,  his  wish 
our  command,  his  welfare  our  personal  concern.  In  him 
we  recognize  Christ's  Vicar  on  earth.  The  infallible 
teacher  of  divine  truth,  the  keeper  of  the  keys  of  the 
Kingdom  of  Heaven.  To  him  and  to  his  predecessors  in 
the  chair  of  Peter,  I  am  bound  by  the  closest  ties  of  grati- 
tude. The  great  Leo  blessed  me  as  a  young  priest  and 
sent  me  forth  on  my  mission.  The  lovable  Pius  raised 
me  to  the  episcopate,  and  now  the  gentle  peace-seeking 
Benedict  gives  me  the  greatest  proof  of  his  confidence 
when  he  entrusts  to  my  guidance  one  of  the  most  import- 
ant dioceses  in  the  world.  To  him  I  do  now  pledge  loyal- 
ty and  devotion  until  death.  Thou  art  the  chief  shepherd 
of  His  flock,  thou  prince  of  the  apostles. 

But  there  is  another,  a  more  intimate  reason  why  I 
welcome  you  here  today.  You  and  I  were  friends  when 
we  were  simple,  unknown  priests.  Nothing  has  ever 
marred  that  friendship,  nor  lessened  the  warm  regard 
and  kindly  feeling  we  have  had  for  each  other.  I  was 
the  first  to  greet  you  when  you  came  to  these  shores,  and 
you  were  the  first  to  wish  me  well  as  the  pastor  selected 
for  a  great  diocese.  There  is  no  one  I  know  from  whose 
hands  I  would  rather  receive  the  archbishop's  Pallium 
than  from  you.  In  the  difficult  years  that  lie  before  me, 
I  will  ever  have  your  good  wishes,  your  fraternal  advice, 
your  unselfish  assistance,  as  in  the  past  I  have  had  your 
prayers. 

The  bishops  of  this  province,  and  in  their  number  I 
count  the  present  bishop  of  Green  Bay,  the  esteemed  and 
beloved  former  auxiliary  of  Chicago,  I  regard  them  as 
part  of  the  clergy  of  the  archdiocese.  They  were  priests 
of  Chicago,  their  affections  are  here,  their  friends  are 
here,  and  I  can  only  repeat  to  them  what  I  have  said  to 
them  in  private,  that  I  trust  they  will  be  generous  with 
me  with  their  counsel.  They  will  share  with  me  their 
friendship,  they  will  make  my  house  their  home.    There 

285 


SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

is  one  other  whom  I  deem  well  to  mention.  By  the  cere- 
mony this  morning  I  have  lifted  the  burden  from  shoul- 
ders willing,  robust,  though  no  longer  young.  He  has 
carried  himself  with  prudence,  distinction  in  the  always 
difficult  period  of  a  sedes  vacaus.  He  has  the  affection 
of  his  fellow  priests,  and  the  esteem  of  the  clergy  else- 
where. But  more  than  all  else  he  has  attracted  me  by 
his  constant  loyalty  to  the  memory  of  my  two  prede- 
cessors and  it  seems  to  me  but  that  one  who  has  faithfully 
served  two  archbishops  will  be  just  as  loyal  to  the  third. 
My  first  official  act  is  to  appoint  as  the  senior  Vicar  Gen- 
eral of  the  diocese  Mgr.  Fitzsimmons  and  to  charge  him 
likewise  with  the  affairs  of  the  diocese. 

And  to  my  brethren  of  the  episcopate,  the  Most  Rev- 
erend Archbishop  and  the  Right  Reverend  Bishops  who 
have  come,  many  from  a  distance,  all  at  great  sacrifice, 
I  am  deeply  grateful,  for  by  their  presence  here  they 
have  honored  the  Church  of  Chicago,  its  clergy,  its  peo- 
ple, its  city. 

And  to  you,  priests  of  the  archdiocese  of  Chicago,  to 
you  I  come  today  as  the  man  selected  by  God  to  be  your 
bishop,  your  leader,  your  spiritual  father.  By  the  in- 
scrutible  design  of  Providence  and  because  of  no  merit 
of  my  own,  I  have  been  chosen  as  the  one  "qiiam  Spiritus 
Sanctus  posuit  reggere  hanc  ecclesiam  Dei."  The  task 
is  one  I  did  not  seek,  one  from  which  I  would  gladly 
shrink,  not  only  because  of  the  vastness  of  the  work  and 
the  difficulties  in  the  way,  not  only  because  of  my  own 
youth,  inexperience  and  unworthiness,  but  also  because  I 
follow  in  the  footsteps  of  an  archbishop  whose  life  was  a 
sacrifice,  whose  example  was  an  incentive,  whose  mem- 
ory is  benediction. 

When  in  that,  to  me,  memorable  night  the  mes- 
sage came  from  him  who  represents  in  our  midst 
Christ's  Vicar  on  earth,  that  the  Pallium  of  Chi- 
cago was  to  rest  on  my  shoulders,  from  my  very  soul  I 

286 


SAINT  XAVIER'S— CHICAGO 

cried  out,  as  I  knelt  before  the  Master,  "How  can  I  fol- 
low after  the  great  Quigley,  the  prelate  who  has  written 
his  name  large  across  the  history  of  this  wonderful  dio- 
cese of  the  middle  west;  how  will  my  weak  hands  take 
up  the  guiding  reins  where  his  palsied  fingers  have  laid 
them  down?"  And  then  almost  like  an  inspiration  came 
to  me  the  thought  of  how  quickly  but  how  well  he  had 
done  his  work,  how  he  had  prepared  the  ground  for  the 
one  that  would  come  after  him,  how  he  had  finished  what 
he  had  begun  and  how  richly  God  had  blessed  his  work. 
Fathers,  have  you  ever  realized  how  good  God  has  been 
to  the  Church  in  Chicago ;  how  it  has  become  one  of  the 
choice  spots  in  this  country?  When  I  count  the  hundreds 
of  churches  scattered  throughout  our  city,  when  I  re- 
view the  great  army  of  children  in  our  schools,  when  I 
consider  the  splendid  equipment  to  care  for  the  sick,  the 
orphans  and  the  destitute,  when  I  number  the  homes  of 
the  religious  leaders  so  many  nurseries  of  the  more  per- 
fect life,  when  I  see  you,  my  priests,  the  captains  of  a 
mighty  host,  almost  too  numerous  to  count,  gathered  to- 
gether from  many  countries  and  many  climes  a,nd  speak- 
ing many  tongues,  then  do  my  eyes  see  the  vision  of  the 
Epiphany  and  to  my  lips  rise  the  words  of  the  prophet, 
"Arise,  be  enlightened,  for  thy  light  is  come  and  the  glory 
of  God  is  risen  upon  thee.  Lift  up  thy  eyes  round  about 
and  see  all  there  are  gathered  together;  they  are  come  to 
thee;  thy  sons  shall  come  from  afar  and  thy  daughters 
shall  rise  up  at  thy  side.  Then  shalt  thou  see  and  abound 
and  thy  heart  shall  wonder  and  be  enlarged." 

Fathers,  this  is  more  than  a  vision,  this  is  a  picture 
of  our  glorious  hereafter,  yours  and  mine.  Never  was 
greater  opportunity  given  for  the  spread  of  God's  king- 
dom; never  was  there  better  chance  to  work  for  His 
glory;  never  was  there  a  brighter  outlook  for  a  harvest 
of  souls  than  you  and  I  have  here  in  Chicago.  What 
fools  we  would  be  to  let  sordid  ambition,  to  let  a  lack. 

287 


SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

of  unity,  to  let  a  spirit  of  neglect  and  indifference  blight 
the  wonderful  harvest  that  is  preparing  before  our  eyes. 
My  life  and  yours  count  for  little  where  God's  glory  is 
concerned;  were  I  to  spend  my  strength  and  energy  in  a 
few  years  what  a  small  price  it  would  be  to  pay  for  the 
fruits  I  can  gather.  So  I  come  to  you,  even  as  came  my 
predecessor,  to  give  the  best  that  is  in  me,  my  strength, 
my  youth,  my  energy,  my  life,  to  lay  them  all  on  God's 
altar  this  morning  for  the  Church  of  Chicago;  ad  sacri- 
ficandum  Domino  veni.  But  without  you  I  am  powerless, 
my  work  would  be  sterile  efforts,  lifeless.  I  need  you. 
I  need  all  of  you  and  I  need  you  so  much;  I  want  you 
to  stand  behind  me;  to  hold  up  my  hand,  to  cover  with 
the  mantles  of  your  charity  my  faults  and  my  shortcom- 
ings. 

When  you  render  to  me  your  obedience,  let  it  be 
with  the  promise  exacted  from  you  in  your  ordination. 
To  you  has  been  given  a  people  than  whom  there  is  none 
more  loyal,  none  more  generous,  none  more  willing. 
Whether  they  have  come  from  the  green  hills  of  Ireland, 
from  the  clean  little  towns  of  Germany  or  France,  from 
the  now  war-scarred  plains  of  Poland  or  whether  they 
first  opened  their  eyes  in  this  land  of  the  free  they  form 
here  this  great  city,  the  obedient  sons  and  daughters  of 
Mother  Church  and  the  best  element  of  our  citizenship. 
You,  the  800  priests  of  this  diocese,  are  their  guardians. 
Keep  them,  do  not  lose  them.  Fathers,  do  not  let  them 
become  estranged  because  of  any  fault  of  your  own,  be- 
cause of  neglect  in  teaching  or  default  in  good  example. 
If  we  do,  God  will  surely  ask  their  souls  of  our  hands 
at  the  judgment  seat. 

And  you,  my  people,  who  today  become  my  sons  and 
daughters,  children  of  the  great  family  committed  to  my 
care !  The  Divine  Spirit  sent  me  to  you  to  be  the  pastor 
of  your  souls.  The  Lord  has  placed  a  heavy  cross  on  will- 
ing but  weak  shoulders.    Some  day,  perhaps  not  far  dis- 

288 


SAINT  XAVIER'S— CHICAGO 

tant,  this  city  will  be  in  mourning,  these  churches  dark- 
ened, and  before  this  altar  will  rest  all  that  is  mortal  of 
the  Third  Archbishop  of  Chicago.  Then  will  his  spirit 
have  passed  before  the  scrutinizing  eye  of  the  Almighty 
and  the  accounting  he  must  then  give  will  be  for  a  million 
and  a  quarter  souls.  From  the  moment  that  the  word 
came  to  me  that  I  must  go  to  you  this  picture  has  never 
been  far  distant  from  my  mind.  It  is  the  last  thought  to 
leave  me  at  night,  the  first  to  greet  me  in  the  morning. 

Oh,  if  you  only  knew  what  a  crushing  weight  this  awful 
responsibility  is,  how  unbearable  it  would  be  for  a  poor, 
weak  man,  were  it  not  for  the  consciousness  that  your 
prayers  never  cease  to  lighten  the  burden.  It  is  the  sup- 
plications of  hundreds  of  consecrated  virgins  that  move 
the  Sacred  Heart  of  the  Master  to  pity  his  humble  serv- 
ant. It  is  the  pleadings  of  the  poor,  the  sick,  the 
orphaned,  the  penitent  that  cry  to  the  Great  Good  Shep- 
herd that  He  might  comfort  their  protector;  it  is  the 
lisping  prayers  of  more  than  one  hundred  thousand  little 
children  that  pierce  the  clouds  and  reach  the  very  throne 
of  God,  that  He  might  strengthen  their  archbishop.  And 
so,  in  the  knowledge  that  like  the  Apostle,  I  can  do  all 
things  in  Him  that  strengthens  me,  I  will  not  falter,  but 
with  God's  grace  and  your  help,  will  bear  without  mur- 
mur the  burden  placed  on  my  shoulders  until  the  end. 

With  one  voice  your  priests  have  told  me  that  I  come 
to  the  most  generous  people  in  the  world.  Show  your- 
selves that  to  me  always,  generous  in  your  sympathy,  gen- 
erous in  your  support — and  then  stay  with  me  always, 
in  good  times  or  in  bad,  in  certainty  and  in  doubt,  stand 
loyally  by  your  bishop;  let  nobody,  let  nothing  part  you 
from  him.  Christ's  words  come  ringing  down  through 
the  ages  for  they  were  meant  as  much  for  the  successors 
of  Apostles  as  for  the  Apostles  themselves.  "He  that 
heareth  you  heareth  Me :  He  that  despiseth  you  despiseth 
Me." 

289 


SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

A  little  while  ago,  in  the  hushed  silence  that  fol- 
lowed the  moment  of  Consecration  in  the  Mass,  I  could 
almost  hear  the  whispered  voice  of  our  Sacramental 
Saviour  as  He  breathed  over  us  the  prayer  He  uttered 
over  His  Apostles  just  before  He  began  His  passion, 
"Father,  I  pray  for  them,  I  pray  not  for  the  world,  but 
for  them  whom  Thou  hast  given  Me  because  they  are 
Thine.  As  Thou  hast  sent  Me  into  the  world  I  have 
also  sent  them  into  the  world.  And  not  for  them  only  do 
I  pray,  but  for  them  also  who  through  their  word  shall 
believe  in  Me,  that  they  all  may  be  one,  as  Thou,  Father, 
in  Me  and  I  in  Thee,  that  they  also  may  be  one  in  Us, 
that  the  world  may  believe  that  Thou  hast  sent  Me."  That 
we  may  be  one,  one  in  all  things,  one  at  all  times,  that 
as  we  are  one  in  faith  and  doctrine,  so  we  may  be  one  in 
work,  one  in  charity — bishop,  priests  and  people,  one  here 
and  there. 

You  remember  that  one  splendid  sentence  in  the 
Epistle  of  All  Saint's  Day:  "And  then  I  saw  a  great 
crowd  that  no  man  could  count  of  all  nations  and  tribes 
and  peoples  and  tongues,  standing  before  the  throne  in 
sight  of  the  Lamb,  clothed  in  white  robes  and  palms  in 
their  hands."  The  great  Church  of  Chicago,  gathered 
from  the  nations  of  the  earth;  that  it  may  be  there, 
bishops,  priests  and  people,  that  we  may  all  be  one  there, 
when  you  and  I  pass  from  the  Church  Militant  God  grant 
that  it  be  to  the  Church  Triumphant,  to  the  great  white 
throne  of  Heaven,  to  chant  God's  praises  forever  and  for- 
ever ! 

I  would  hardly  be  human  were  I  to  remain  unmoved 
by  the  warmth  of  your  welcome,  and  I  would  be  ungrate- 
ful did  I  not  give  some  expression  of  my  deep  apprecia- 
tion of  your  kindly  feelings.  It  would  be  unwise  and  use- 
less to  make  extravagant  promises  now,  but  one  thing  I 
can  assure  you,  in  the  moments  of  loneliness  that  some- 
times come  to  all  of  us  and  especially  to  those  in  high 

290 


SAINT  XAVIER'S— CHICAGO 

places,  the  memory  of  the  warmth  of  your  reception  and 
the  heartiness  of  the  welcome  of  your  peoples  to  me  will 
cheer  and  comfort  me  for  many  years  to  come.  But  yes- 
terday I  left  home  and  kindred  and  the  dearest  friends 
man  ever  had,  and  abandoned  the  fruits  of  many  years 
of  labor,  but  I  did  so  without  regrets,  for  today  the  Lord 
has  united  me  to  the  house  He  had  selected  for  me  for 
eternity,  to  the  wonderful  Church  of  Chicago,  and  to  her 
and  to  her  children,  I  will,  with  God's  help,  remain  faith- 
ful until  death  do  us  part. 

And  now  let  me  say  one  thing  to  comfort  you, 
priests  of  the  archdiocese,  and  I  say  it  here  in  the 
presence  of  His  Excellency  the  Apostolic  Delegate. 
For  a  great,  proud  diocese  like  ours,  practically  the 
first  in  the  country,  it  is  a  test  of  loyalty  and  obe- 
dience to  receive  as  its  head  an  obscure  bishop  from  a 
long  distance  away.  I  know  of  no  diocese  in  the  east 
that  could  have  stood  the  test  so  nobly  as  did  Chicago. 
Gentlemen,  I  am  proud  of  you.  Although  a  stranger  to 
almost  every  one  of  you,  the  diocese,  almost  to  a  man, 
prepared  to  welcome  the  new  archbishop  warmly,  saying, 
"Whom  the  Lord  sends  us  will  be  welcome."  Let  me  tell 
you  that  example  of  this  kind  does  more  to  convince  our 
non-Catholic  brethren,  as  well  as  our  own  people,  that 
our  profession  of  loyalty  to  the  Holy  See  is  not  lip-device, 
but  comes  from  the  depths  of  our  being,  with  the  entire 
power  of  our  will  and  all  the  warmth  of  our  hearts. 

And  now  from  the  clergy  of  this  archdiocese  I  am  going 
to  ask  a  favor  today.  I  am  going  to  take  advantage  of  the 
warmth  of  your  welcome  to  ask  you  to  be  patient  with 
me  and  to  have  consideration  for  me.  Remember  this 
is  the  first  day  I  spend  in  your  city.  It  will  take  time 
to  study  the  diocese  and  its  circumstances.  Rome  was 
not  built  in  a  day,  and  I  don't  expect  to  accomplish  much 
for  awhile.  I  must  first  study  men  and  study  conditions. 
Secondly,  I  am  different  from  the  late  archbishop — the 

291 


SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

Lord  cast  me  in  a  different  mould.  Perhaps  I  am  quicker 
in  grasping  a  thing,  and  am  likely  to  act  more  quickly. 
So  don't  judge  at  once  that  I  have  not  attached  enough 
weight  to  your  case,  and  if  I  seem  to  hurry  you  a  little 
when  you  call,  it  is  not  that  I  am  not  interested  in  you, 
but  perhaps  because  others  may  be  waiting  and  waiting 
impatiently. 

Finally,  remember  I  have  a  bad  memoiy  for  names 
and  faces,  so  if  I  a  second  or  third  time  ask  your 
name,  lay  the  blame  on  a  leaky  memory  rather  than 
on  a  cold  heart.  Secondly,  be  considerate  with  me — you 
will  find  me  very  human — and  it  is  human  to  err.  I 
am  going  to  make  mistakes.  But  I  am  your  archbishop 
and  I  look  to  my  priests  to  cover  up  my  mistakes,  not  to 
expose,  to  discuss  or  to  criticise  them.  For  to  whom  else 
can  I  look  for  such  consideration?  Your  archbishop  is 
the  one  man  in  this  town  who  is  constantly  in  the  spot- 
light. Shield  him  as  much  as  you  can.  Have  considera- 
tion for  him  and  he  is  likely  to  be  considerate  with  you. 
I  come  here  to  you  because  I  have  been  sent  to  you  by  the 
same  power  that  sent  Patrick  to  Ireland,  Boniface  to  Ger- 
many, Augustine  to  England.  And  like  them,  I  came 
here  to  labor  for  you  and  with  you.  I  have  been  told 
by  many  of  the  bishops  that  I  come  to  the  most  diffcult 
and  most  thorny  position  of  the  Lord's  vineyard.  But 
let  me  assure  you  that  my  sincere,  my  honest  conviction 
is  that  I  am  coming  to  the  most  fertile  portion,  to  the  part 
promising  the  greatest,  the  richest,  the  golden  harvest  of 
souls. 

And  so,  I  come  not  here  to  obtain  a  reputation,  for 
a  reputation  is  only  a  gossamer  web,  which  a  sudden 
gust  blows  away.  I  come  not  here  for  popular  favor,  for 
the  popular  favor  today  is  and  tomorrow  has  vanished. 
I  come  not  here  to  look  for  honors,  for  the  highest  honor 
in  the  gift  of  the  Holy  See  is  to  be  Archbishop  of  Chi- 
cago.   I  repeat,  I  came  to  labor  with  you;  we  are  both 

292 


SAINT  XAVIER'S— CHICAGO 


sowers  of  the  seed,  you  and  I,  and  all  that  we  hope  for, 
our  whole  ambition  is  wrapped  up  and  contained  in  that 
one  Biblical  sentence.  "And  some  fell  on  good  ground, 
.and  having  taken  root,  brought  forth  fruit  in  abundance." 


293 


Mother  Marv  Schoi.astica  Drum 


CHAPTER  TWENTY-ONE 

A  record  of  three  hundred  sixty-six  members. 
One  hundred  thirty-five  in  the  Great  Beyond. 
Mother  Mary  Scholastica  a  venerable  octoge- 
narian. Golden  Jubilee  of  Sister  Mary  Vic- 
toire.  List  of  Golden  Jubilees  in  the  Com- 
munity. 


Mother  M arv  Frances  de  Sales  Monhoi.i.and 


CHAPTER  TWENTY-ONE 

And  now  after  seventy  years  in  Chicago  with  a  record 
of  three  hundred  and  sixty-eight  members,  most  of  them 
in  active  service,  and  one  hundred  and  thirty-eight  in  the 
Great  Beyond,  helping  by  their  intercession,  it  may  not 
be  amiss  to  give  a  pen-picture  of  our  venerable  octegena- 
rian — Mother  Mary  Scholastica — who  surprises  all,  not 
only  by  the  clearness  of  her  intellect,  but  by  keeping  so 
closely  in  touch  with  the  every-day  interests  of  the  Com- 
munity. 

Born  in  Galena,  111.,  February  9,  1831,  Anne  Drum 
entered  the  Convent  of  Mercy  in  that  city  May  13,  1849, 
and  received  the  White  Veil  the  following  November. 
After  two  years  of  novitiate  Sister  Mary  Scholastica 
made  her  perpetual  vows  and  continued  teaching  there 
in  the  Academy.  In  1855  she  was  brought  to  Chicago  and 
did  excellent  work  as  an  instructress  in  various  English 
branches,  besides  drawing  and  painting. 

In  1867  she  was  chosen  to  fill  the  office  of  Superior  on 
the  retirement  of  Rev.  Mother  Francis. 

In  1869  Mother  Scholastica  improved  the  hospital  by 
a  large  addition  which  extended  it  to  the  corner  of 
Twenty-sixth  Street,  besides  a  wing  containing  a  fine 
chapel  which  was  much  needed,  and  is  still  in  use. 

After  the  fire  in  1871  accommodations  had  to  be  found 
for  teachers  and  pupils ;  ground  was  purchased  at  the 
corner  of  Wabash  and  Twenty-ninth  at  a  very  high  figure, 
and  the  new  Academy  went  up  rapidly.  September,  1873, 
found  the  school  reopened  but  carrying  a  very  heavy  debt. 

During  the  same  year  Mother  Genevieve,  having  been 
elected  Superior,  Mother  Scholastica  was  chosen  to  take 
her  place  in  the  novitiate  as  Mistress  of  Novices  until 

297 


SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

1882,  when  she  filled  the  office  of  Bursar  for  one  term. 
Mother  Mary  Vincent,  resigning  her  position  of  Mother 
Assistant  in  1885  on  account  of  ill  health.  Mother  Scholas- 
tica  was  assigned  to  this  office  by  Rev.  Mother  Genevieve. 
This  continued  for  nineteen  years  when  the  death  of 
Mother  Genevieve,  April  26,  1904,  left  the  Mother  Assist- 
ant at  the  head  of  the  Community,  until  the  usual  time 
in  May  for  holding  an  election.  Archbishop  Quigley 
attended  and  Sister  Mary  de  Sales  Ryan,  Class  of  1876, 
was  chosen  to  fill  the  Office. 

Mother  Mary  Scholastica  has  been  Secretary  of  the 
corporation  and  is  always  usefully  employed,  either  writ- 
ing, printing,  painting  or  praying. 

Mother  Scholastica  is  noted  for  recovery  from  three 
serious  accidents  in  her  religious  life,  rising  victorious 
out  of  all  of  them,  though  the  last  has  left  her  very  feeble. 

First,  when  a  young  Sister  she  was  carrying  a  scuttle 
of  coal  up  an  outside  icy  stairway,  she  fell  and  broke  one 
knee-cap.  In  those  days  very  little  was  done  in  such 
cases,  the  surgeons  said  she  would  never  walk  again ;  but 
after  a  long  illness  she  surprised  everyone  by  getting 
around  again  almost  as  well  as  ever. 

Her  second  accident  was  in  June,  1911,  when  she 
slipped  on  the  polished  floor  and  broke  her  right  arm 
close  to  the  shoulder.  After  a  reasonable  length  of  time 
the  surgeon  told  her  nothing  more  could  be  done,  and 
she  need  not  expect  to  have  the  use  of  this  arm. 

Feeling  rather  dejected  about  this  disabling  of  her 
right  arm,  she  was  asked  by  Sister  Mary  Clara  what  was 
the  matter  and  she  soon  informed  her.  This  good  Sister 
said,  "Don't  worry.  Mother,  you  will  have  the  use  of  it 
and  she  took  a  Badge  of  the  Sacred  Heart  and  pinned  it 
right  over  the  weak  spot.  When  the  surgeon  came  again 
and  examined  the  arm  he  was  surprised  to  find  a  great 
improvement,  and  told  her  so.  The  result  was  she  soon 
began  to  write  almost  as  well  as  ever,  and  since  that  she 

298 


SAINT  XAVIER'S— CHICAGO 

paints  and  prints  as  usual.  But  the  third  accident  was 
even  more  serious  in  another  fall,  January,  1912,  she 
fractured  her  right  hip.  This  necessitated  twelve  weeks 
in  a  caste,  lying  in  the  same  position  with  very  little 
hope  of  ever  walking  again.  In  fact  the  same  surgeon 
said  there  was  only  a  possibility  of  it  with  the  aid  of 
crutches.  But  the  dear  Sacret  Heart  came  again  to  the 
rescue  and  Mother  Scholastica  at  eighty-one  years  of  age 
started  walking  and  now  (1916)  is  up  at  five  every  morn- 
ing, and  is  present  at  Mass  and  Holy  Communion  every 
day.  She  is  rather  feeble  but  manages  with  assistance 
to  get  around  pretty  well.  She  has  always  had  an  indom- 
itable will  and  it  stands  her  in  good  stead  now,  for  it 
helps  her  to  keep  around.  She  is  invariably  cheerful, 
always  looking  on  the  bright  side. 

This  venerable  Mother  has  been  feted  on  three  special 
occasions,  viz. :  her  Silver  Jubilee  in  1876 ;  her  Golden  in 
1901,  and  her  sixtieth  anniversary,  now  called  the  Dia- 
mond Jubilee,  Nov.  13,  1911.  On  her  last  birthday,  she 
quietly  remarked  that  if  she  lives  fifteen  years  longer, 
she  will  be  a  centenarian  and  she  does  not  object  in  the 
least. 

*     *     * 

Sister  Mary  Angela  Martin  is  also  an  octogenarian, 
eighty-three  years  of  age,  of  which  sixty-seven  have  been 
spent  in  the  garden  of  religion.  Her  early  days  at  old 
St.  Xavier's  have  been  noted  in  connection  with  Mother 
Genevieve  who  was  her  companion  in  the  Novitiate,  and 
with  whom  she  celebrated  her  Golden  Jubilee. 

Sister  Mary  Victoire  is  also  on  the  list  of  venerables. 

From  The  New  World  of  April  18,  1903,  we  take  the 
following  clipping: 

Sister  Mary  Victoire's  Golden  Jubilee 

Easter  Monday,  1903,  was  a  great  day  for  the  Com- 
munity of  the  Sisters  of  Mercy  at  Forty-ninth  Street  and 

299 


SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

Evans  Avenue,  the  occasion  being  the  Golden  Jubilee  of 
Sister  Mary  Victoire  Bosse,  one  of  their  revered  mem- 
bers. 

Half  a  century  ago  in  the  old  convent  that  stood  on  the 
corner  of  Wabash  Avenue  and  Madison  Street  Miss 
Celina  Bosse,  in  the  flower  of  her  youth,  for  she  was  then 
but  nineteen,  with  three  others,  Sister  M.  Euphrasia  Kin- 
sella,  Sister  M.  de  Chantal  Grogan  and  Sister  M.  Alphon- 
sus  Butler,  who  have  long  since  gone  to  their  reward, 
made  their  final  vows  and  pledged  themselves  forever  to 
the  King  of  Heaven. 

At  10 :30  Pontifical  Mass  was  celebrated  by  Right  Rev. 
P.  J.  Muldoon,  Rev.  A.  L.  Bergeron,  assistant  priest ;  Rev. 
P.  C.  Conway  and  Rev.  D.  Dunne,  deacons  of  honor ;  Rev. 
E.  A.  Kelly  and  Rev.  M.  J.  Fitzsimmons,  deacons  of  the 
Mass;  Rev.  J.  Scanlon,  master  of  ceremonies.  Present 
also  in  the  sanctuary  were  several  other  clergymen. 

An  English  sermon  was  preached  by  Rev.  M.  J.  Dorney 
of  St.  Gabriel's;  also  one  in  French  by  Rev.  M.  J.  Mar- 
sile,  president  of  St.  Viateur's  College,  Bourbonnais 
Grove,  111.,  each  of  whom  eloquently  portrayed  the  beau- 
ties of  the  Religious  Life  and  the  noble  deeds  of  the 
Jubilarian. 

At  three  o'clock  the  ceremonies  closed  with  Solemn 
Benediction  of  the  Most  Blessed  Sacrament,  after  which 
the  procession  passed  slowly  from  the  chapel,  singing  the 
"Te  Deum." 

Sister  M.  Victoire's  joys  were  shared  not  only  by  her 
many  sisters  in  Religion,  but  by  her  many  relatives  and 
friends  who  came  from  far  and  near  to  offer  their  tribute 
of  love  and  congratulations. 

Among  the  many  beautiful  gifts  she  received  were  two 
Angels  presented  by  Mr.  and  Mrs.  J.  Convey.  Also  two 
beautiful  white  marble  Angels  donated  by  her  brothers 
and  sisters. 

Sister  Mary  Victoire  was  bom  in  Cape  St.  Ignace,  Que- 

300 


SAINT  XAVIER'S— CHICAGO 

bee,  Canada,  February  21,  1834.  She  belongs  to  a  very- 
religious  family,  having  many  relatives  in  the  Sacred 
Ministry,  among  them  was  the  Rev.  A.  Lebel,  pastor  of 
the  first  French  church  in  Chicago,  Rev.  A.  L.  Bergeron 
who  is  pastor  of  Notre  Dame  church.  Rev.  J.  T.  Hudson, 
Manistee,  Mich. ;  Rev.  I.  Bosset,  S.  J.,  St.  Louis.  Besides 
she  has  four  nieces  who,  like  herself,  have  embraced  the 
Religious  Life,  two  of  whom.  Sister  Mary  Calista  and 
Sister  Mary  Fidelis,  are  Sisters  of  Mercy. 

Sister  Mary  Victoire  entered  the  Convent  of  Mercy  in 
this  city  June  21,  1850,  four  years  after  the  establish- 
ment of  the  Order  of  Mercy  in  Chicago.  When  the  time 
of  her  probation  had  expired  she  was  professed  by  the 
Rt.  Rev.  James  Oliver  Van  de  Velde,  second  Bishop  of 
Chicago.  Thirty-six  years  of  her  life  have  been  spent  in 
Mercy  Hospital  alleviating  the  pain  of  suffering  human- 
ity by  her  tender  care  and  cheerful  manner,  or. 

Watching  the  wearied  spirit  wing  its  parting 

flight  away, 
And  soothing  the  mourner's  weeping  o'er  the 

cold  and  senseless  clay. 

Jubilee  Ode 

Back  through  the  vista  of  fifty  full  cycles 
Gaze  we  again  with  deep  joy,  noble  pride. 

On  a  maiden  fair  arrayed  for  her  nuptials, — 
Nuptials  so  holy, — Christ's  dear,  chosen  bride. 

Tender  her  years  when  the  Bridegroom's  sweet  wooing 
Won  her  whole  heart  to  His  service  and  love. 

Cast  she  behind  all  earth's  tempting  pleasures. 
To  tread  the  path  thorny  which  leads  safe  above. 

What  were  her  joys?    Ah!  they  know  who  have  shared 
them; 
Deeper  than  seas  that  the  purest  pearls  hide, 

801  .; 


SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

Purer  than  snow  on  a  heaven  kissed  mountain, 
Streamlets  that  over  bright  golden  sands  glide 

And  the  same  pulses  now  quick'ning  her  spirit 
Triumphing  ever  mid  sorrow  and  fears, 

Throb  strong  today  as  in  life's  happy  morning. 
Joyful  of  heart  through  the  bright  golden  years. 

Yet  not  in  her  own  heart  alone  dwells  this  gladness. 
From  out  of  her  treasure  gives  she  full  and  free, — 

To  scatter,  as  ether,  true  sunshine  her  pleasure. 
And  who  but  has  felt  it  inspiring  to  be? 

0 !  while  the  clear  sheen  of  your  Jubilee  Golden 
Sheds  softly,  loved  Sister,  its  quickening  rays. 

Permit  us  to  offer  fond  greetings  and  wishes. 

To  voice  for  you  now  our  glad  heart-song  of  praise. 

0 !  praise  we  the  Bridegroom  so  bounteous  to  you, 
His  love  has  enfolded  through  life's  every  care, 

And  raise  we  our  hearts  with  a  humble  devotion 
In  gratitude's  deepest  and  tenderest  prayer. 

And  praise  we  fidelity,  loving  and  tender. 

To  duty's  clear  call,  through  a  life  wholly  given 

To  cheer  and  to  comfort  the  sad  and  afflicted 

And  raise  them  from  earth  to  their  God  and  to  Heaven. 

All  through  the  life  laden  well  with  deeds  golden 
There  gleam  many  gems  from  her  virtuous  mines. 

The  rarest  and  brightest  her  "ecce  ancilla" 
Which  deep  in  her  spirit  all  others  outshines. 

May  He  who  commenced  in  her  young  soul  the  labor 
Complete  it  in  mercy,  till  perfect  in  love, 

Her  soul  finds  its  rest  in  the  Bridegroom's  great  kingdom, 
To  reign  with  His  chosen  ones  above. 

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SAINT  XAVIER'S— CHICAGO 

In  1913  Sister  Mary  Victoire  celebrated  her  Diamond 
Jubilee  and  bids  fair  to  add  several  years  more  to  the 

cycle. 

«     «     *     *     *     * 

Sister  Mary  Lucy  Dempsey  is  another  octegenarian 
still  in  active  service,  although  eighty-seven  years  of  age, 
sixty-eight  of  which  have  been  spent  in  religion  labor- 
ing faithfully  in  any  occupation  assigned  her.  Her  pres- 
ent duty  is  in  the  culinary  supply-room  at  the  Hospital 
where  she  ministers  to  the  wants  of  every  kitchen  in  the 
house,  large  and  small,  and  no  one  ever  applies  to  her  in 
vain  for  the  necessary  foods  or  delicacies  required  for 
the  inmates  of  that  large  institution.  Her  saintly  life 
gives  edification  to  all  her  sisters.  She  never  fails  to  be 
present  with  the  Community  for  morning  meditation. 
She  even  finds  time  to  visit  her  invalid  Sisters  to  comfort 
them  and  help  them  to  bear  the  heavy  cross  which  inca- 
pacitates them  and  renders  them  unable  to  be  of  use 
either  to  themselves  or  others.  Of  this  number  Sister 
Mary  Josephine  Hayden  is  a  striking  example.  Eighty 
years  old,  and  sixty  years  in  religion  she  is  a  very  patient 
invalid  suffering  from  paralysis.  Always  happy  especial- 
ly when  Sister  Mary  Lucy  is  telling  the  beads  beside  her 
bed,  and  ready  to  give  her  any  help  in  her  power.  Unable 
to  raise  hand  or  foot  she  sees  the  humorous  side  in 
everything  and  is  always  ready  to  show  it  to  others. 
(R.  I.  P.,  1916). 

Golden  Jubilees 

The  number  of  Silver  Jubilees  is  so  great  we  will  not 
attempt  to  record  them,  but  we  cannot  resist  giving  a  list 
of  the  Golden  sheaves  which  now  and  then  have  bright- 
ened the  little  garden  of  Mercy  in  Chicago. 

1897— Mother  Mary  Vincent,  R.  I.  P.  1900. 

1901— Rev.  Mother  M.  Genevieve,  R.  I.  P.  1904. 

1901 — Mother  Mary  Scholastica. 

1901 — Sister  Mary  Angela. 

303 


SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

1903 — Sister  Mary  Victoire, 

1908 — Sister  Mary  Ambrose. 

1908— Sister  Mary  Josephine,  R.  I.  P.  1916. 

1909— Sister  Mary  Elzear,  R.  I.  P.  1915. 

1910 — Sister  Mary  Lucy. 

1911— Sister  Mary  Borgia,  R.  I.  P.  1912. 

1912— Sister  Mary  Juliana,  R.  I.  P.  1913. 

1912— Sister  Mary  Ignatius,  R.  I.  P.  1914. 

1914 — Sister  Mary  Raphael. 

1914 — Sister  Mary  Gabriel. 

1917 — Sister  Mary  Agnes. 

1917 — Sister  Mary  Alexis. 

Golden  Links 

As  we  glance  at  the  links  in  our  Golden  Chain, 
We  lovingly  wonder  at  all  they  contain ; 
Heroic  deeds  on  all  sides  we  find. 
With  love  for  the  neighbor  sweetly  entwined; 
Reliance  on  God  was  the  Heaven-sent  ray, 
That  lightened  the  path  and  pointed  the  way. 

In  this  glimpse  of  the  past,  which  with  blessings  was 

fraught, 
True  Faith,  Hope  and  Charity  surely  are  taught, 
In  the  struggles  and  toils  of  those  early  years, 
And  the  sanctified  lives  of  our  pioneers. 
Like  them,  as  we  tread  the  paths  they  have  trod, 
We  must  seek,  not  our  own,  but  the  glory  of  God. 

The  past  has  departed,  the  present  is  ours,  " 

To  pluck  out  the  thorns  from  eternity's  flowers ; 
The  future,  alas !  is  hidden  from  view, 
And  the  sand  in  life's  glass  it  may  not  renew; 
Yet  whatever  is  sent — be  it  pain,  toil  or  rest. 
We'll  accept  it  from  God,  who  does  all  for  the  best. 

— Sister  Mary  Jane  Duggan. 
R.  L  P.  1907. 

304 


CHAPTER  TWENTY-TWO 

A  cursory  notice  of  those  gone  before.  "In 
Memoriam" — Sr.  Mary  Pius  Teats,  S.  M.  C. 
Sister  Mary  Ignatius,  foundress  of  Training 
School.  She  also  organized  Mercy  Hospital 
Pharmacy. 


CHAPTER  TWENTY-TWO 

We  cannot  close  this  little  volume  without  a  cursory 
notice  of  a  few  of  the  loved  ones  gone  before  who  were 
remarkable  in  some  way  while  still  with  us. 

To  mention  all  who  have  shed  more  or  less  lustre  on  the 
diadem  of  St.  Xavier's  since  its  inception  in  1846  would 
be  an  almost  endless  task.  Many  of  those  of  the  early 
days,  who  bore  the  brunt  of  the  battle,  who  endured  so 
patiently  the  many  hardships,  which  are  not  recorded 
on  time's  fading  pages  are  noted  in  Mother  Austin  Car- 
roll's "Leaves  from  the  Annals,"  hence  we  will  glean 
from  a  later  period,  remembering,  however,  that  the  most 
hidden  saints  are  sometimes  the  greatest,  and  the  noblest 
lives  are  often  those  of  which  least  can  be  said,  so  uni- 
formly perfect  are  they. 

Sister  Mary  Ursula  Tobin,  whose  span  of  religious  life 
was  almost  half  a  century,  died  on  July  12,  1899.  Hers 
was  a  strong  character.  All  the  virtue  that  render  the 
life  of  a  true  sister  of  Mercy  so  charming,  were  conspi- 
cuous in  her  intercourse  both  with  her  sisters  and  with 
seculars.  She  practiced  obedience  in  perfection  and  was 
in  consequence  always  most  helpful  to  her  Superiors.  She 
had  charge  of  the  Boys'  Orphan  Asylum  on  Wabash  Ave- 
nue in  the  early  days,  when  conveniences  were  few  and 
trials  many.  The  sisters  always  loved  to  hear  her  re- 
late experiences,  and  to  note  her  unwavering  trust  in 
Divine  Providence.  Kindness  with  her  was  second  na- 
ture; she  so  endeared  herself  by  her  Motherly  ways  to 
the  children  in  this  institution,  that  ever  afterward,  even 
when  they  reached  man's  estate,  they  came  to  consult 
Sister  on  any  important  matter.  Many  of  them  perpet- 
uated her  memory  in  their  families,  by  calling  a  daughter 

307 


SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

"Ursula,"  and  by  explaining  why  the  little  girl  should  be 
so  called.  At  different  periods,  Sister  Mary  Ursula  held 
the  office  of  Bursar,  and  Mistress  of  Novices  in  the  Com- 
munity. During  the  last  two  or  three  years  of  her  life 
she  suffered  greatly  from  a  fractured  hip,  the  effects  of 
a  fall.  The  enforced  inactivity  caused  by  her  inability 
to  walk  was  very  trying  to  one  who  had  always  spent  a 
most  busy  life. 

Sister  Mary  Celestine  Smith  was  another  hidden  saint 
who  filled  out  a  long  course  in  a  short  time.  Going  into 
rapid  consumption  shortly  after  her  profession  and  hav- 
ing many  little  privations  to  bear  she  suffered  all  so 
sweetly  that  she  was  looked  on  as  very  near  and  dear  to 
God.  A  short  time  before  she  departed  a  companion  asked 
her  to  obtain  a  certain  favor  for  her  when  she  would  get 
to  Heaven.  She  replied.  Yes,  indeed,  just  as  soon  as  I  see 
God,  I  will  remember  that  request."  Not  many  days 
passed  ere  the  answer  came.  In  death  she  looked  more 
beautiful  than  in  life,  and  continued  to  improve  even  to 
the  color  appearing  in  the  cheeks,  though  there  was  no 
embalming  done  in  those  early  days. 

Mother  Mary  Agatha  Bonfield  was  a  member  of  one  of 
Chicago's  pioneer  families.  From  her  entrance  into  re- 
ligion she  showed  herself  capable  of  uniting  the  activity 
of  Martha  with  the  contemplation  of  Mary.  A  sister  who 
was  formerly  a  pupil  of  The  St.  Xavier  Academy  at  2834 
Wabash  Avenue,  recalls  many  pleasant  memories  of  her. 
For  years  she  held  the  responsible  position  of  Bursar  and 
directress.  Her  discipline  was  strict,  and  she  could  be 
severe  when  the  occasion  required  it.  Yet  under  her  stern 
exterior  was  a  kind,  generous  nature.  Many  of  the  pupils 
found  in  Mother  Mary  Agatha  a  steadfast  friend  and  a 
loyal  advocate.  Her  devotion  to  duty  was  most  admirable. 
Once,  even  at  the  risk  of  her  life,  she  was  loyal  to  the 
trust  that  was  confided  to  her.  Although  the  duties  of 
her  office  necessitated  that  the  material  affairs  of  the 

308 


Mother  Mary  Agatha   Bonfield 


SAINT  XAVIER'S— CHICAGO 

convent  engrossed  much  of  her  attention,  yet,  she  never 
lost  her  child-Hke  prayerful  spirit.  When  her  last  illness 
came,  a  few  days  before  her  death,  with  that  calmness 
which  always  characterized  her  she  quietly  prepared  to 
meet  her  Maker.  Her  attitude  in  those  trying  hours 
proved  how  she  had  acquired  perfect  resignation  to  God's 
holy  will,  and  it  was  most  edifying  to  see  with  how  much 
confidence  she  prepared  to  meet  Him  who  was  inviting 
her  to  her  eternal  reward — the  realization  of  her  pro- 
fession hymn,  "Veni  Sponsa  Coronaberis." 

Amongst  those  hidden  saints  was  Sister  Mary  Angelica 
Mahon  who  departed  from  this  world  in  1907  after 
twenty-five  years  in  the  religious  life  which  seemed  to 
be  a  second  nature  to  her  so  perfectly  calm  was  she  under 
every  circumstance,  in  every  change,  and  with  all  dis- 
positions. Gradually  her  eyes  failed  from  constant  daily 
use  in  copying  music  to  oblige  others  and  in  giving  music 
lessons,  often  by  gas  light,  until  she  became  totally  blind. 
She  had  a  remarkably  gentle,  sweet  disposition  and  all 
agreed  in  saying  she  was  never  known  to  fail  in  charity. 
She  felt  the  loss  of  her  sight  very  keenly,  yet  murmuring 
was  so  foreign  to  her  nature,  she  bore  this  great  trial 
with  wonderful  patience,  only  saying  a  couple  of  times 
very  sadly;  "Am  I  to  be  always  this  way  in  the  dark?" 
Sooner  than  was  expected  Almighty  God  opened  the 
dear  eyes  of  her  soul  to  the  great  light  beyond.  After 
a  pleasant  Christmas  day  she  suddenly  collapsed  from 
paralysis  and  passed  away  the  next  day  blessed  by  un- 
consciousness, for  she  always  said  she  did  not  know  how 
she  could  ever  part  from  the  sisters  she  loved  every  one 
of  them  so  much. 

Truly  edifying  was  the  religious  life  and  departure  of 
Sister  Mary  Camillus  Bradley  on  the  eve  of  the  Assump- 
tion, 1903.  Born  in  Libertyville,  111.  she  went  through 
the  town  school  and  then  came  to  St.  Xavier's  where  she 
was  graduated  after  four  years.    There  were  eight  in  the 

309 


SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

class  that  year  and  they  were  all  bright,  studious  pupils, 
so  they  were  known  as  the  beatitudes.  It  may  be  well  to 
enter  their  names  in  our  little  history — Catherine  Bradley 
(Sr.  Mary  Camillus),  Mary  V.  Murphy  (Mrs.  Duffy), 
Catherine  Milnamow,  Lizzie  Milnamow,  Rose  O'Brien, 
Catherine  Hastings  (Mrs.  Herron),  Lizzie  M.  Cudahy 
(Mrs.  W.  P.  Nelson),  Alice  Higgins  (Mrs.  M.  Dunne). 

Shortly  after  her  school-days  closed,  Catherine  Bradley 
entered  the  Community  and  soon  commenced  her  life 
work  in  which  she  was  most  successful.  An  extract  from 
a  Sister's  journal  gives  the  following  account  of  the  last 
hours  of  Sister  Mary  Camillus : 

"At  the  closing  of  the  August  retreat.  Father  Finn  S.  J. 
who  had  given  it  remarked :  'While  I  must  say  I  have  been 
edified  by  all  I  have  observed  I  cannot  help  adding  that 
I  was  especially  so  by  the  holy  death  of  your  Sister.  I 
went  to  see  her  once  during  the  week  and  when  I  asked 
her  what  was  the  matter  she  told  me  "Stone  Cancer."  I 
said,  "Do  you  know  what  that  means?"  She  replied,  "Yes, 
Father!"  I  could  see  in  her  face  the  calm  of  the  peace 
of  her  life,  she  was  perfectly  resigned.  She  was  no  longer 
striving  for  perfection,  but  must  have  attained  it,  as  she 
fully  realized  her  condition  and  was  satisfied  with  God's 
Will,  which  is  true  perfection.  I  did  not  see  her  again  un- 
til I  was  called  in  her  last  moments  when  I  was  more 
convinced  than  ever  of  the  passing  of  a  saint.' 

"August  16,  this  dear  Sister  M^as  borne  to  her  last  rest- 
ing place  after  a  Solemn  Requiem  Mass,  but  it  is  indeed  a 
world  of  change,  for  immediately  after  a  wonderful  trans- 
ition took  place.  Everything  assumed  a  festive  appear- 
ance as  preparation  had  to  be  made  at  once  for  another 
High  Mass — this  time  for  a  Silver  Jubilee  which  could 
not  be  postponed  as  invitations  had  been  sent  out  to  the 
friends  of  the  Jubilarians,  and  the  chapel  was  soon  filled 
with  priests  and  people.  While  a  sombre  cortege  was 
passing  out  another  joyous  one  was  filing  in." 

310 


SAINT  XAVIER'S— CHICAGO 

The  Jubilarians  were  Sister  Mary  Clementine,  Sister 
Mary  Helen  and  Sister  Mary  Dolores,  the  last  having 
since  passed  to  her  own  reward  in  Mercy  Hospital,  Jan- 
uary 27,  1916.  Her  departure  was  very  sudden  as  she 
started  from  the  office  where  she  was  aiding  some  of  the 
twenty-five  nurses  preparing  to  go  to  the  seat  of  war  in 
Europe.  Overworked  as  she  was  in  her  anxiety  to  do  all 
she  could  for  them,  she  complained  of  vertigo  and  went 
to  her  room  to  rest  a  while,  but  collapsed  outside  the  door 
where  she  was  seen  falling  by  a  nurse.  Carried  in  to  her 
room  she  was  anointed  before  she  expired,  but  did  not 
regain  consciousness.  That  morning  she  had  received  her 
Lord  in  the  chapel  for  the  last  time,  never  dreaming  it 
was  her  Viaticum,  and  the  previous  day  she  was  at  con- 
fession, so  the  dear  soul  was  prepared  to  meet  her  Judge 
in  as  far  as  we  poor  mortals  are  capable  of  such  a  prepar- 
ation. Her  religious  life  had  been  a  succession  of  good 
deeds  both  in  the  schoolroom  and  the  hospital  where  she 
was  happy  in  serving  and  comforting  the  afflicted. 

Sister  Mary  Zoe  Nolan  in  her  service  of  the  sick  in 
the  Hospital,  for  many  years  supplying  their  meals  and 
happy  when  all  were  satisfied,  was  most  charitable  and 
cheerful  in  all  her  dealings  with  others.  At  last  she  was 
told  she  must  have  a  serious  operation  which  she  could 
not  believe  was  necessary.  But  she  submitted,  and  in  one 
week  after  she  had  gone  to  receive  the  reward  of  labors 
well  performed. 

A  hidden  saint  was  Sister  Mary  Lioba  Bellwood  who 
departed  this  life  in  1910  at  Mercy  Hospital,  where  she 
had  spent  several  years  in  comforting  other  afflicted  ones 
in  their  sufferings  and  helping  many  to  die  well.  She 
herself  was  a  great  sufferer  for  years  from  cancer,  which 
affected  her  whole  system,  though  not  visible  to  others. 
Very  few  knew  until  near  the  last  what  she  had  to  endure, 
and  yet  she  was  patient,  cheerful,  humble  and  generous. 
Dying  for  months,  she  thought  not  of  herself,  but  lest 

311 


SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

others  would  be  inconvenienced  in  the  least  by  her.  A 
truly  hidden  saint  she  is  now  enjoying  the  reward  of  her 
patience  and  charity. 

Sister  Mary  Teresa  Hunt  was  consumed  with  zeal  and 
may  be  said  to  have  sacrificed  her  health  in  accomplishing 
her  work.  Her  spirit  of  prayer  was  most  admirable.  If 
she  carried  her  love  of  mortification  to  excess  it  was  be- 
cause she  wanted  to  atone  for  shortcomings  which  she 
could  not  help  seeing  in  her  many  visits  to  poor  unfortu- 
nate sufferers. 

From  the  New  World  of  June  19th,  we  take  the 
following  notice  of  Sister  Mary  Thecla  Toner:  "After 
thirty-eight  years  of  the  strenuous  life  of  a  religious 
teacher  this  devoted  sister  has  gone  to  hear  the  "well 
done"  of  the  Master  of  the  vineyard.  Stricken  with  a 
painful  illness  after  Mass  and  Holy  Communion  on  the 
first  Friday  of  this  month,  resignedly  and  in  fact  cheer- 
fully she  gave  up  her  gentle  soul  to  the  keeping  of  her 
Lord  on  the  feast  of  the  Sacred  Heart.  And  it  was  fitting 
it  should  occur  on  that  beautiful  day,  as  she  was  noted 
for  her  devotion  to  that  sweet  source  of  every  grace.  Her 
reply  to  persons  who  appealed  to  her  for  consolation  was 
always :  "Go  to  the  Sacred  Heart  of  our  dear  Lord  and  He 
will  comfort  you."  Inspired  with  confidence  in  this  great 
source  of  mercy  they  went  to  Him  and  never  were  con- 
founded." Sister  Mary  Thecla  had  many  warm  friends 
here,  having  taught  all  those  years  in  the  parochial 
schools  of  the  Sisters  of  Mercy  of  the  south  side,  notably 
All  Saints',  St.  Rose's,  St.  James'  and  Holy  Angels',  of 
which  she  was  principal  for  seven  years.  She  is  mourned 
especially  by  two  fond  sisters,  the  Misses  Mary  and  Nellie 
Toner. 

Sister  Mary  Paula  Kelly,  who  suffered  long  and  pa- 
tiently, died  in  1912  having  served  God  faithfully  for 
thirty-one  years  in  St.  Gabriel's  School,  drawing  many 
young   hearts   to  the  love  and  service  of  her  heavenly 

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SAINT  XAVIER'S— CHICAGO 

Spouse.  Her  zeal  in  working  for  God's  g-lory  and 
promoting  the  spirtual  and  temporal  advancement  of 
all  her  pupils  was  simply  phenomenal,  and  many  rise  up 
to  call  her  blessed,  as  they  labor  in  the  ranks  of  the  clergy 
or  in  the  different  religious  orders.  At  her  funeral  her 
former  pupils  vied  with  one  another  in  showing  their 
appreciation  of  her  saintly  life.  All  recognized  that  in 
her  were  combined  two  great  virtues ;  the  simplicity  of  a 
child  and  the  strength  of  a  valiant  woman. 

Sister  Mary  Louis  Broderick  was  the  nightingale  of  the 
Academy  for  several  years  until  she  went  to  join  the  choir 
invisible. 

From  being  a  pupil  of  St.  Xavier's  she  became  the 
Master-spirit  in  all  that  was  true  and  elevating  in  instru- 
mental and  vocal  music,  leading  her  pupils  to  a  higher 
plane  in  the  pursuit  of  celestial  harmony.  But  she  never 
allowed  her  great  love  for  music  to  draw  her  heart  or 
soul  from  the  still  higher  aspirations  of  her  religious  life. 
The  one  thing  necessary  was  ever  before  her  mind  and 
she  endeavored  to  imbue  her  pupils  with  the  same  high 
ideals.  As  each  year  she  acquired  a  more  perfect  know- 
ledge of  her  favorite  art,  she  also  practiced  her  favorite 
virtues,  obedience  and  humility,  in  a  more  sublime  degee, 
and  thus  was  more  loved  and  honored  by  her  sisters.  Her 
spirituality  impressed  all  who  had  the  happiness  of  know- 
ing her. 

Sister  Mary  Liguori  Healy  having  labored  earnestly  in 
God's  service  in  South  Chicago  and  other  schools  for 
twenty-five  years,  was  warned  her  days  were  numbered 
unless  she  went  west  for  change  of  air.  Finding  it  was 
not  efficacious  she  came  home  to  die  perfectly  resigned 
to  God's  will.  Always  patient  and  cheerful  she  never  was 
known  to  murmur  no  matter  what  trials  or  sufferings  she 
had  to  endure.  Finally  one  day  she  asked  those  around 
her  to  read  the  Litany  of  the  Sacred  Heart  for  her.  They 
got  a  prayer  book,  but  could  not  find  what  she  wanted,  so 

313 


SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

she  took  it  and  turned  to  the  place;  Rev.  Mother  Xavier 
being  present  read  it  and  with  her  crucifix  in  her  hand 
Sister  Mary  Liguori  calmly  breathed  forth  her  gentle 
soul  into  the  hands  of  her  Creator. 

Sister  Mary  Ruth  Hayde  who  taught  some  years  at  St. 
James  was  so  patient,  scarcely  anyone  knew  that  the  grim 
destroyer  was  working  slowly  but  surely  undermining  the 
frail  body,  while  Sister  Mary  Loyola  watched  her  dear 
little  sister  with  silent  anguish,  seeing  how  it  would  too 
surely  end.  But  when  it  did  come  Sister  Mary  Ruth  was 
well  prepared  to  meet  it,  for  the  beautiful  spirit  grew  in 
grace  and  strength  as  its  fragile  tenement  in  failing,  "let 
in  new  light  through  chinks  which  time  had  made." 

Sister  Mary  Pius  Kelly  was  an  efficient  teacher  in  St. 
Gabriel's  High  School.  She  was  surely  made  perfect  in 
a  short  time.  After  only  seven  years  in  the  religious  life 
God  found  her  ripe  for  her  home  beyond.  Her  patient 
endurance  of  a  complication  of  ailments  helped  most  ef- 
ficaciously to  sanctify  this  lovely  soul.  She  remained  at 
her  post  until  Superiors  saw  it  evident  the  grim  destroyer 
was  near  at  hand  and  they  obliged  her  to  desist.  Her 
cheerfulness  was  marvelous  and  it  was  quite  evident  Sis- 
ter Mary  Antonia  suffered  almost  as  much  in  witnessing 
the  intense  sufferings  of  her  beloved  sister.  All  felt  on 
her  departure  that  a  real  saint  had  been  admitted  into 
the  Company  of  the  Blessed. 

Sister  Mary  Cephus  Mullen  whose  work  was  very 
trying,  did  not  give  up  until  a  few  months  before 
she  was  obliged  to  go  to  the  Hospital  where  she  did  not 
linger  long.  Her  sweet,  gentle  disposition  was  more  evi- 
dent than  ever  in  her  great  suffering.  Everyone  was 
edified  by  her  patience  and  all  felt  the  benefit  of  her  good 
example. 

Sister  Mary  Pius  Teats  who  was  well  known  as  the  best 
lady  artist  in  Chicago  departed  this  life  February  8,  1905. 
She  was  Sister  Mary  Beatrice's  teacher  and  grounded  her 

314 


Sister  Maky  Pius  Teats 


SAINT  XAVIER'S— CHICAGO 

well,  not  only  in  art  but  in  the  foundations  of  the  relig- 
ious life  in  which  she,  herself,  was  an  adept.  A  convert  to 
the  grand  old  faith  she  always  impressed  others  with  its 
sublimity  and  often  said  she  never  could  thank  God 
enough  for  the  great  gift  of  faith.  Her  patient,  gentle 
disposition  caused  all  her  pupils  and  sisters  to  revere  her, 
in  fact  she  was  regarded  as  a  saint. 

9n  HemDrmm 

SISTER  MARY  PIUS  TEATS 

Died  February  8,  1905. 

We  lived  and  labored  with  her  year  by  year. 

And  fondly  dreamed  her  precious  worth  we  knew, — 

That  soul  so  pure,  that  heart  so  warm  and  true, — 

That  broad,  bright  mind,  so  sage,  so  calm,  so  clear, — 

Those  words  of  piety,  of  kindly  cheer 

From  one  sweet  source,  their  gentle  charm  she 

drew, — 
Her  genius  rare,  which  heaven  accords  so  few, — 
Yes,  every  grace  which  made  her  grand  and  dear. 
Alas !  we  learned  how  little  did  we  know, — 
How  faintly  did  our  poor  hearts  realize 
Her  gifts  and  beauty,  when  beneath  the  snow 
Our  peerless  one  was  hidden  from  our  eyes, — 
Sad  eyes,  whose  tears  gave  tribute  in  their  flow 
Unto  that  life  of  love  and  sacrifice. 

Sweet  spirit,  in  thy  home  serene  and  bright. 
Where  all  thy  wondrous  gifts  are  glorified, — 
With  us,  thy  Sisters,  still  in  prayer  abide. 
As  we  in  thy  deep  ecstacy  unite: 
For  though  we  wept  to  see  thee  take  thy  flight, 
We  saw,  the  while.  Heaven's  portal  open  wide, — 
Saw  Jesus  welcome  thee,  His  lovely  bride. 
And  crown  thee  with  His  glory  and  delight. 

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SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

This  is  thy  joy:  oh!  dare  we  add  one  more. 
And  say  what  pure,  though  human,  bliss  was  thine 
In  meeting  with  the  dear  one  gone  before? 
How  rapturously  with  HER  whose  love  benign, 
To  thee  and  to  us  all  in  days  of  yore, 
Gave  foretaste  of  a  blessedness  divine ! 

S.  M.  C. 

Mother  Mary  Baptist  Curley  died  November  13,  1905, 
having  been  in  religion  more  than  thirty-seven  years.  She 
lived  onjy  a  little  more  than  a  year,  after  being  appointed 
Mistress  of  Novices.  Although  her  stay  in  the  novitate 
was  brief,  it  will  always  recall  the  sweetest  memories, 
and  ever  be  tenderly  cherished  by  the  sisters  who  were 
under  her  guidance. 

She  had  been  in  charge  of  All  Saint's  School  and  of  St. 
Elizabeth's  for  many  years,  hence  she  was  well-exper- 
ienced in  educational  work.  This  knowledge  combined 
with  excellent  judgment,  firmness  and  integrity  made  her 
an  ideal  guide  for  the  young  religious  who  were  confided 
to  her  care.  She  possessed  so  charming  a  personality  that 
her  presence  gave  an  air  of  joy  and  happiness  to  the  no- 
vitiate. 

To  the  casual  observer  she  was  a  genial,  whole-souled 
religious ;  to  the  daily  associate  she  was  a  character  first 
admired,  then  loved.  A  study  of  her  disposition  inspired 
imitation.  Generous  and  tender-hearted,  she  was  quick 
to  forgive  an  injury;  quick  to  sympathize  with  the  err- 
ing, not  however  allowing  her  sympathy  to  prevent  the 
necessary  rebuke  which  duty  might  require. 

Thoroughly  imbued  with  the  spirit  of  her  holy  vocation, 
she  strove  to  make  her  daily  life  a  living  example  of  the 
virtues  dearest  to  her  Divine  Spouse.  Her  greatest  pleas- 
ure was  to  teach  her  novices  wherein  true  happiness  con- 
sists,— rendering  a  joyful  service  to  their  dear  Lord  and 
Master. 

316 


Mother  M  \rv  Baptist  Curley 


Mother  Mary  Baptist  Curi.ey 


SAINT  XAVIER'S— CHICAGO 

Sister  Mary  Mercy  Flanagan  spent  thirty-four  years  in 
religion,  and  nineteen  years  as  local  superior  at  St.  Anne's 
School.  With  six  others  she  opened  the  School,  with 
four  hundred  children,  and  after  twenty  years  the 
number  has  increased  to  one  thousand,  with  twenty 
teachers.  For  years  she  patiently  suffered  from  heart 
affection  and  other  painful  diseases,  yet  she  was  al- 
ways cheerful  and  continued  to  work  until  very  near 
the  last.  The  day  before  her  departure  she  had  the 
great  happiness  of  assisting  at  the  Holy  Sacrifice  of  the 
Mass  offered  for  her  by  Rev.  Dr.  F.  A.  Purcell,  in  the 
Infirmary.  During  the  evening  she  said  to  her  Superior : 
"I  have  great  peace  of  soul,  perhaps  I  should  rather  be 
afraid  since  I  am  so  soon  to  die."  The  next  day,  Friday, 
she  calmly  said  good  bye  to  her  brother  and  five  of  her 
sisters,  who  went  to  the  chapel  in  tears  to  pray  for  her. 
Two  more  of  her  sisters,  Rev.  Mother  Mary  Xavier  and 
Sister  Mary  Evangelist,  remained  beside  her.  At  3  o'clock 
all  the  sisters  were  summoned.  Rev.  E.  A.  Kelly,  her 
pastor,  and  Rev.  John  J.  Flanagan,  her  nephew,  knelt 
beside  her,  and  while  the  right  hand  of  each  was  raised 
in  blessing  and  absolution.  Sister  breathed  her  last  sigh, 
and  her  dear  soul  was  safe  with  God. 

The  following  is  an  extract  from  a  paper  written  for 
the  New  World : 

"Sister  Mary  Mercy  was  a  very  young  religious  when 
she  was  put  in  charge  of  St.  John's  School.  Our  school 
system  was  in  its  infancy  in  those  days,  and  the  primitive 
equipment  necessitated  hardships  and  self-denials  that 
could  scarcely  be  imagined  now.  But  these  trials  were 
cheerfully  borne  by  the  young  Spouse  of  Christ,  who  had 
given  up  all  to  follow  her  Master,  and  was  happy  to  be- 
come more  like  Him  in  suffering.  She  realized  thus  early 
in  her  life  of  renunciation,  that  before  God  could  draw  in 
the  infinite  design  of  His  providence  and  work  with  the 
soul  as  a  fit  instrument,  it  must  first  be  charred  in  the 

317 


SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

furnace  of  suffering.  This  lesson  stood  her  in  good  stead 
in  later  years,  and  strengthened  her  for  the  fiery  ordeals 
of  physical  pain  she  bore  with  the  patience  of  a  martyr. 
After  six  years  she  was  appointed  to  organize  a  new 
school  in  the  large  and  flourishing  parish  of  St.  Anne.  For 
nineteen  years  she  governed  that  school  with  a  master 
hand,  and  the  work  performed  in  it  is  a  monument  to  her 
memory  more  'enduring  than  brass  and  loftier  than  the 
regal  structures  of  the  pyramids.' 

Her  one  desire  in  that  responsible  charge  was  to  give 
all  the  children  of  the  parish  an  opportunity  of  acquiring 
a  Christian  education.  What  greatly  pleased  Sister  Mary 
Mercy  was  the  results  of  the  religious  teaching  and  ex- 
ample that  the  former  pupils  manifested  in  their  daily 
lives.  She  seemed  to  infuse  into  the  hearts  of  her  pupils 
her  lively  faith  in  God  and  His  word,  and  her  ardent  love 
for  our  Lord  and  His  Blessed  Mother.  Every  child  that 
came  within  the  circle  of  her  influence  and  experienced 
the  magnetism  of  her  personality  was  permanently  bene- 
fited. She  was  a  radiating  center  from  which  a  mysterious 
influence  went  out  that  bound  all  her  pupils  to  her.  All 
who  ever  sat  at  her  feet  and  took  instruction,  ever  after 
turned  to  her  instinctively  as  a  wise  counselor,  and  placed 
implicit  confidence  in  her  soundness  of  judgment.  Her 
interest  in  souls  was  so  great  that  she  never  lost  sight  of 
the  pupils  that  passed  through  her  school  nor  failed  to 
encourage  them  in  faithfulness  to  God  and  religion.  This 
is  a  sure  test  of  genuine  zeal  and  of  an  abiding  love  that 
is  rare  upon  earth,  and  this  why  she  never  lost  the  con- 
fidence and  love  of  her  pupils. 

A  great  tribute  to  worth  was  shown  by  the  thousands 
who  assisted  at  her  obsequies.  Her  body  lay  in  state  in 
St.  Anne's  Church  on  Sunday  afternoon  and  night  and 
day  crowds  prayed  at  her  bier.  In  the  evening  many 
priests  chanted  the  Office  for  the  Dead.  The  funeral  took 
place  on  Monday  morning  at  10  o'clock.  The  sermon  was 

318 


SisTKR  Mar\   Mercv  Flanagan 


SAINT  XAVIER'S— CHICAGO 

preached  by  Archbishop  Quigley  and  it  was  a  grand 
eulogy  of  her  life  work.  All  the  children  and  people  of 
St.  Anne's  accompanied  the  remains  in  procession  to  the 
confines  of  the  parish,  a  touching  tribute  to  one  dear  to 
all." 

F.  A.  P. 
In  Memory  of  Sister  Mary  Mercy,  St.  Anne's  Alumni 
erected  the  Blessed  Virgin's  beautiful  marble  altar  in 
St.  Anne's  Church. 

******* 

Sister  Mary  Beatrice  Sheehan  passed  away  July  10, 
1914,  after  an  illness  of  a  few  weeks  in  Munich,  Bavaria, 
Germany.  In  August  of  1913,  the  dear  departed  sister, 
who  had  been  for  years  at  the  head  of  the  Art  Department 
of  the  Saint  Xavier  Academy,  was  given  an  opportunity 
to  visit  the  art  galleries  of  Europe  and  the  Old  Masters 
and  to  travel  and  study  in  order  to  get  a  back-ground  for 
future  work. 

"No  one  unacquainted  with  the  gifted  artist  can  appre- 
ciate her  true  worth,  her  wonderful  ability.  To  her 
charming  personality  she  added  the  humility  and  sim- 
plicity of  the  greatness  that  was  hers.  So  imbued  was 
she  with  those  beautiful  virtues  that  she  would  never  even 
have  imagined  the  grief  which  the  news  of  her  death 
brought  to  religious  circles,  to  her  pupils  and  to  all  those 
who  came  under  her  influence.  In  a  supreme  degree  she 
had  an  all-pervading  spirituality  that  touched  all  her 
work,  and  which  at  the  close  of  her  life  enabled  her  calmly 
to  lay  aside  the  palette  and  brush  she  loved  so  well  and 
go  rejoicingly  to  meet  the  Divine  Personality  whom  she 
had  so  often  given  to  the  world  in  exquisite  line  and  color. 
She  is  at  home,  now,  with  the  Great  Artist  to  whom  she 
had  consecrated  her  life,  but  she  has  left  her  work  unfin- 
ished and  grief  in  the  hearts  of  those  who  loved  her."  On 
Thursday,  July  30,  the  remains  of  the  dear  departed  sister 
reached  Chicago,  and  on  Saturday  morning  the  funeral 

319 


SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

was  held  from  the  Convent  Chapel.  The  services  were 
conducted  by  the  Rev.  John  Henry  Nawn,  assistant  pastor 
of  Corpus  Christi  Church,  who  celebrated  Requiem  High 
Mass,  assisted  by  the  Rev.  E.  L.  Dondanville,  pastor  of 
St.  John's  Church,  deacon ;  the  Rev.  H.  Weber,  of  Corpus 
Christi  Church,  sub-deacon;  the  Rev.  J.  Ahearn  and  the 
Rev.  C.  McClellan,  masters  of  ceremony. 

Not  only  were  there  many  of  the  clergy  in  the  sanctu- 
ary, but  the  chapel  was  crowed  with  relatives,  pupils  and 
friends  of  the  greatly  loved  departed  Sister. 

After  the  Benedictus,  as  a  climax  to  the  eulogy  in  which 
he  dwelt  on  the  departed  as  "a  worthy  religious,  an  artist 
and  a  dear  friend,"  the  Rev.  Father  Nawn  addressed  the 
sister-artist  in  the  following  beautiful  words:  "Sister 
Mary  Beatrice,  may  your  tender  soul  rest  in  Eternal 
peace.  May  your  eyes  open  to  the  beauties  of  God ;  may 
the  hands  which  so  often  caressed,  with  the  brush,  the 
Divine  Infant  and  His  Mother,  be  caressed  by  God ;  your 
feet  which  have  followed  the  beauties  of  the  Master  ever 
be  blest.  Like  the  Virgin  Mother  of  Jesus  not  many  of 
your  words  will  be  recorded;  but  Mary  gave  us  the  Re- 
deemer and  you  gave  Him  to  us  in  your  art.  May  you 
rest  forever  in  the  Sacred  Heart  of  your  Spouse,  Jesus. 
Your  mourning  Sisters  of  St.  Xavier's  can  never  for- 
get you.  They  will  only  think  they  have  one  more  saint 
in  Heaven  and  they  can  truly  know  it.    God  rest  you !" 

Sister  Mary  Ignatius  Feeney  who  departed  January 
1915,  was  a  most  remarkable  religious  in  many  ways. 
Sincerely  devoted  to  her  Community  and  all  its  regula- 
tions, she  was  particularly  progressive  in  Hospital  work 
and  founded  the  Training  School  for  Nurses,  as  well  as 
the  Pharmacy  Department  in  Mercy  Hospital. 

We  take  the  following  from  The  Pharmaceutical  Era, 
of  January  1913:  "Were  the  patients  who  have  been 
helped  by  the  medicines  prepared  by  Sister  Mary  Ig- 
natius and  under  her  gentle  supervision,  arranged  in  a 
procession  they  would  make  a  goodly  army. 

320 


SAINT  XAVIER'S— CHICAGO 

"When  the  Sisters  of  Mercy  took  charge  of  the  hospital, 
1851,  this  institution  had  a  space  for  12  beds  in  a  rented 
house.  Four  Sisters  did  the  work  and  nursed  the  patients, 
who  in  turn  paid  $3.50  per  week  for  board  and  nursing. 
An  interne  was  soon  secured  to  aid  in  the  care  of  the 
sick,  and  one  of  his  duties  was  to  fill  prescriptions  for 
the  visiting  staff.  The  interne  sometimes  made  mistakes 
in  his  prescription  work.  As  the  hospital  grew  the  in- 
ternes became  more  numerous — and  mistakes  continued 
to  be  made. 

"About  this  time  the  "Great  Chicago  Fire"  occurred, 
and  the  Convent  of  the  Sisters  was  destroyed,  also  their 
parish  schools  and  boarding  schools.  A  large  addition 
to  the  hospital  had  just  been  finished,  but  it  was  not  fur- 
nished. People  had  laughed  at  the  Sisters  for  building 
so  large  a  place,  but,  even  before  the  fire,  their  Superior 
foresaw  that  Chicago  must  necessarily  grow  rapidly  be- 
cause of  its  commercial  advantages.  And  many  who  had 
laughed  at  the  great  building  now  came  looking  for  a 
shelter  in  those  never-to-be-forgotten  October  days  of 
1871. 

"Among  the  others  were  the  Sisters  of  Mercy,  with 
boarding  school  children  and  young  women  from  the 
Home.  It  was  at  this  time  that  Sister  Mary  Ignatius  came 
to  live  at  the  hospital  and  took  to  nursing  the  sick.  The 
medicine  was  still  prepared  by  the  internes,  who  usually 
wrote  the  ingredients  and  dosage  on  the  label,  but  when 
giving  the  medicines  Sister  Mary  Ignatius  carefully  read 
the  directions  and  soon  made  it  a  rule  to  ask  the  doctors 
to  explain  to  her  the  medicinal  properties  of  the  various 
combinations.  As  she  had  previously  acquired  a  know- 
ledge of  chemistry  and  botany,  she  found  these  of  great 
help  in  her  study  of  materia  medica.  She  soon  began  to 
refill  prescriptions  under  the  doctors'  supervision  and 
took  a  deep  interest  in  her  work. 

"When  the  schools  were  rebuilt  she  went  back  to  teach- 

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SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

ing.  However,  the  professors  still  continued  to  want  a 
Sister  permanently  in  their  pharmacy  and  finally  Sister 
Mary  Ignatius  was  sent  back  to  continue  the  work  for 
which  she  had  shown  such  apitude.  She  now  improved 
every  opportunity  to  study  materia  medica  and  pharmacy. 
There  was  a  dispensary  connected  with  the  hospital,  and 
she  also  prepared  much  of  the  medicine  for  these  patients ; 
then  the  neighbors  commenced  coming  to  be  served  by  the 
sweet-faced  Sister  at  the  hospital  store. 

"About  this  time  the  State  pharmacy  law  was  passed 
and  a  neighboring  druggist,  noticing  the  falling  away  of 
some  of  his  customers,  learned  that  they  were  patronizing 
the  hospital  drug  store.  He  reported  to  the  State  Board 
of  Pharmacy  that  the  Sisters  were  running  a  Pharmacy 
without  a  license. 

"The  Sisters  called  on  Mr.  Buck,  of  the  firm  of  Buck  & 
Raynor,  druggists,  in  Chicago,  at  that  time  president  of 
the  State  Board.  An  examination  would  be  held  in 
Springfield  two  weeks  later,  and  this  he  advised  her  to 
take. 

"Sister  Mary  Ignatius  determined  to  follow  his  advice, 
and  so  she  and  another  Sister  started  for  Springfield  one 
fine  Saturday  morning,  comforted  by  the  thought  that 
no  one  knew  their  destination  or  mission.  But  some  one 
must  have  learned  of  their  departure,  for  instead  of  no 
one  knowing  about  it,  all  the  Sunday  morning  Chicago 
papers  had  an  article  stating  that  Sister  Mary  Ignatius 
of  Mercy  Hospital  had  gone  to  Springfield  to  take  the 
State  Board  examination. 

"Fifty-seven  men  and  the  one  dark-robed  Sister  took 
the  examination.  Three  men  and  Sister  Mary  Ignatius 
passed.    Bravo,  Sister! 

"And  yet  even  in  the  light  of  her  triumph  she  modestly 
says: 

"It  may  seem  strange  that  so  many  men  failed,  but 
about  that  time  down  through  the  State  of  Illinois  many 

322 


Sister  Marv  Ignatius  Feenev 


SAINT  XAVIER'S— CHICAGO 

men  who  kept  the  postoffices  and  general  stores  also  kept 
the  drug  store,  put  up  prescriptions  and  sold  patent  medi- 
cines. They  knew  nothing  of  pharmacy;  in  this  way 
many  fatal  errors  occurred.  It  was  this  condition  of 
things  that  called  the  pharmacy  law  into  existence.  The 
results  of  the  examination  proved  the  need  of  the  law. 

"All  through  the  intervening  years  she  has  conscienti- 
ously performed  the  duties  of  her  office,  and  today  is  in 
a  position  to  speak  with  authority  on  women  as  institu- 
tional pharmacists.  Added  to  her  own  experience  she  has 
consulted  the  heads  of  many  institutions  and  finds  that 
the  consensus  of  opinion  favors  women  as  heads  of  such 
pharmacies,  because  they  say :  'Women  are  accurate,  neat 
and  conscientious."  Long  life  to  the  pharmacist  of  Mercy 
Hospital!" 

But  the  wonderful  energy  of  this  devoted  Sister  was 
not  confined  to  the  pharmacy.  She  saw  the  necessity  of 
a  regular  training  school  for  nurses,  and  through  many 
almost  insuperable  obstacles  and  untold  opposition,  she 
never  ceased  her  endeavors  until  she  had  accomplished 
this  praiseworthy  object.  Much  might  be  said  of  all  the 
time  and  labor  she  gave  to  this  great  work,  but  space  will 
not  permit.  Suffice  it  to  state  she  persevered  until  the 
trainging  school  was  affiliated  to  the  Northwestern  Uni- 
versity. This  was  not  enough;  she  finally  procured  its 
registration  by  the  state  and  thus  it  became  recognized  as 
a  first  class  standard  school. 

On  October  12,  1912,  Mercy  Hospital  celebrated  the 
golden  jubilee  of  Sr.  Mary  Ignatius  by  a  Solemn  High 
Mass  in  the  morning,  Benediction  in  the  afternoon  and  in 
the  evening  a  grand  "Festa,"  given  by  the  alumnae  of  the 
training  school  in  the  large  ampitheater,  which  was 
crowded  by  the  graduates  of  the  school,  doctors  and 
many  friends  of  the  jubilarian.  Dr.  Wm.  E.  Quine  was 
the  elequent  eulogist,  or  as  reported,  he  was  the  master 
surgeon,  who  laid  bare  the  good  deeds  of  Sr.  Mary  Ig- 

323 


I  SISTERS  OF  MERCY 

natius.  Said  Dr.  Quine:  "And  now  at  this  half -century- 
mark  we  look  into  her  life  and  find  it  without  blemish. 
She  has  served  God  and  fellow-man  at  the  sacrifice  of  her- 
self. Always  she  has  been  good  and  kind,  joyful  and 
faithful.    Her  life  has  been  a  succession  of  mercies." 

Shortly  after,  this  zealous  Sister,  who  was  suffering 
from  heart  trouble,  was  obliged  to  lay  down  the  burden 
of  constant  work  in  the  pharmacy,  although  she  still  went 
there  occasionally.  Her  work  for  souls  was  unceasing; 
even  when  confined  to  her  bed  she  forgot  not  the  spiritual 
welfare  of  many  whom  she  had  uplifted  by  kind  words  as 
well  as  by  prayer. 

At  length  the  wished-for  summons  came  and  whisper- 
ing— "Thy  will  be  done!"  she  breathed  forth  her  gentle 
soul  on  the  morning  of  the  thirtieth  of  January. 

February  1  a  Requiem  High  Mass  was  celebrated  in  the 
Chapel  of  Mercy  Hospital,  Rev.  P.  W.  Dunn  being  cele- 
brant ;  Rev.  J.  C.  Gillan,  deacon  and  Rev.  Wm.  Ryan  sub- 
deacon.  The  sermon  was  given  by  Rev.  J.  C.  Gillan. 
About  twenty  priests  were  present,  several  of  whom  ac- 
companied the  remains  to  Calvary,  where  they  chanted 
the  Benedictus. 

"VENI  SPONSA  CHRISTI." 

Come,  Spouse  of  Christ,  receive  the  crown,  prepared  in 
Heaven  for  Thee; 

Where  every  deed  is  noted  down  for  all  eternity. 

The  Bridegroom  comes  and  calls  for  thee,  His  faithful, 
loving  spouse ; 

Thrice  happy  soul,  so  soon  to  see  the  object  of  thy  vows. 

0  Lord,  Thy  word  is  pledged  to  give  on  earth  a  hundred- 
fold. 

To  those  who  in  Thy  service  live,  with  heavenly  joys 
untold. 

324 


SAINT  XAVIER'S— CHICAGO 

Thy  seal  was  placed  upon  her  brow,  Thy  ring  upon  her 

hand, 
When  she,  in  youth,  with  heartfelt  vow  didst  join  sweet 

Mercy's  band. 
Then  show,  0  Lord,  Thy  power  at  length,  confirm  what 

Thou'st  begun ; 
Oh !  be  to  her  a  tower  of  strength  and  crown  Thy  chosen 

one. 

«    •    •    «    • 

Those  yesterdays  are  gone,  never  more  to  return,  but 
their  fruits  remain,  for  the  spirit  of  those  venerated 
predecessors  permeates  the  hearts  and  souls  of  their 
faithful  followers,  who  are  endeavoring  to  walk  humbly 
in  their  footsteps,  while  they  exclaim  with  one  accord: 
"Not  to  us,  O  Lord,  not  to  us,  but  to  Thee  be  all  the 
glory." 


825 


f  JjrIS  God's  blest  will  that  onward  we  should  go, 

^U^     Few  magic  words  of  commendation  meet 
E'er  sweetly  chime  to  keep  our  hearts  aglow. 
What  matters  this !     While  toiling  here  below 
With  quenchless  love,  our  faith  will  e'er  respond 
To  ONE  awaiting  in  the  Great  Beyond 
With  sweet  award  which  He  will  there  bestow. 
Whoever  saves  his  life  for  self  alone 
Shall  lose  it.    And  who  gives  his  life  for  God 
And  souls,  shall  find  it  happily  indeed. 
So  true  it  is  we  reap  as  we  have  sown. 
But  while  we  bow  beneath  love's  chastening  rod. 
We  trust  our  all  to  HIM  in  time  of  need. 


